Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Denounces Opposition’s Propaganda, Calls for Honest Leadership in Upcoming Panchayat Polls

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Denounces Opposition’s Propaganda, Calls for Honest Leadership in Upcoming Panchayat Polls

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday criticized opposition forces for spreading false narratives to hinder the state’s progress and prosperity. Addressing a gathering in Chauke (Bathinda) after dedicating 30 new Aam Aadmi Clinics to the people, Mann reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Punjab, dismissing baseless allegations from political adversaries as an attempt to derail the state’s growth. He emphasized that certain political figures, envious of Punjab’s progress under his leadership, were attempting to mislead the public through false propaganda, but he vowed to remain undeterred in his mission to serve the state.

Mann slammed his predecessors for neglecting the welfare of the state and prioritizing their personal and family interests over public service. He accused previous governments of causing long-term harm to Punjab’s progress by focusing on self-enrichment rather than the well-being of its people. In contrast, Mann highlighted his government’s efforts to restore the state’s pristine glory and work tirelessly toward the prosperity of its citizens.

A key theme of Mann’s speech was his defense against accusations made by opposition leaders. He asserted that their resentment stems from his humble origins, as they find it difficult to accept that a common man is effectively running the state. According to Mann, these leaders believed they had a divine right to govern and were disconnected from the realities of ordinary people. He stated that their elitism and exploitation have come to an end, as the people of Punjab have placed their trust in a government that truly represents them.

Taking aim specifically at Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, Mann quipped that the former Deputy Chief Minister was out of touch with the state’s realities, claiming that he couldn’t even differentiate between a pumpkin (“kaddu”) and a bottle gourd (“lauki”). Mann accused Badal and other political elites of misleading the public for years, while his own government was working transparently to bring about genuine change for the people.

Mann highlighted several achievements of his administration, particularly in job creation and reversing the trend of youth migration out of the state. Over 44,000 jobs have been provided to Punjab’s youth in a transparent manner, leading many young people who had previously moved abroad in search of employment to return home for job opportunities. The state’s educational institutions have also seen a significant increase in admissions, further emphasizing the positive impact of the government’s initiatives on Punjab’s youth.

One of the major accomplishments Mann discussed was the state government’s acquisition of the Goindwal power plant, previously owned by private company GVK Power, at a cost of ₹1,080 crore. This strategic move allows Punjab to utilize coal from the Pachwara coal mine—allocated specifically for government power plants—for generating electricity, ensuring the state’s energy needs are met efficiently. Mann expressed pride in the fact that 90% of consumers in the state are now receiving zero power bills due to his government’s pro-people policies, which include providing affordable and reliable electricity to all sectors.

In his address, Mann also emphasized the government’s focus on water conservation, especially in the context of the ongoing paddy season. He highlighted a revolutionary step taken by his administration to provide canal water to farmers for irrigation, reducing the state’s reliance on depleting groundwater resources. Mann stated that when he took office, only 21% of canal water was being used for irrigation purposes, but through dedicated efforts, that figure has now increased to 72%. This initiative, he noted, is crucial for ensuring sustainable agriculture and preserving water resources for future generations.

Further, Mann announced the construction of the New Kandi Canal, which will benefit around 11,000 acres of land. Additionally, the government is working on establishing a 206 MW dam at Dhar Kalan. He mentioned that the construction of the Malwa Canal is also underway, a project that had been ignored by previous administrations. Once completed, this 150-kilometer canal will provide irrigation to nearly two lakh acres of fertile land in the state, contributing to Punjab’s agricultural development. Mann noted that the government has allocated approximately ₹2,300 crore for this project, which is expected to bring unprecedented progress and prosperity, particularly to the Malwa region.

On the administrative front, Mann stressed the need for closer engagement with the public, declaring that governance is no longer confined to offices in Chandigarh. His administration has launched the “Sarkar Tuhaade Dwaar” initiative, organizing village-level camps to bring essential government services directly to the people’s doorsteps, saving time, money, and energy. Mann promised more such pro-people initiatives in the future, aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all citizens of Punjab.

The Chief Minister also turned his attention to the upcoming Panchayat elections, calling for the electorate to choose honest and intelligent candidates to lead their communities. In a significant move, the state government has decided that Panchayat elections will be contested without party symbols, a decision Mann believes will help eliminate factionalism and promote holistic development in rural areas. He emphasized that depoliticizing these elections is in the larger public interest and will help ensure that Panchayats focus on development rather than party politics.

To encourage unanimous elections in villages, Mann announced that any village that elects its Panchayat unanimously will receive a ₹5 lakh grant, along with the construction of a stadium, school, or hospital, depending on the village’s needs. He underscored his government’s commitment to strengthening the Panchayati Raj system, emphasizing that capable and honest leaders must be chosen to drive development at the grassroots level.

Mann concluded his address with a clarion call for voters to reject divisive and misleading politics in the upcoming elections, reaffirming his government’s commitment to working for the betterment of all Punjabis. He envisioned that the state’s progress under his leadership would continue to benefit every citizen, ensuring that Punjab remains on the path to peace, prosperity, and progress.

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