He sharpened his attack on the BJP, Congress and Akali Dal, questioning their record in power and accusing them of promoting nepotism and criminal elements in politics, while also taking aim at the Centre over poverty and rising hardships.

Announcing that a special session on April 13 will enact a stringent anti-sacrilege law with provisions of no bail for one year and life imprisonment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann declared the 2027 elections as a clear choice, saying the Congress symbolises the legacy of anti-Sikh riots, the Akali Dal stands discredited, and AAP represents a governance-driven alternative committed to building a “Rangla Punjab.”

Addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone of several development projects, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The land of Jaito has always written history, and it deserves our salute. Whether it is literature or struggle, whenever the need arose in any field, Jaito has always stepped forward and stood at the forefront.”

The Chief Minister asserted, “Every vote casted to Akalis will be mandate in favor of sacrilege of Guru and Gurbani.” He said that the Akalis had bruised the psyche of every individual through the desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji, adding, “Akalis had disrespected the bani of the great Guru Sahiban and ordered firing on the innocents in Behbal Kalan and Bargadi. They have shown grave disrespect to Sri Akal Takht Sahib.” He further stated, “Jathedars of Sri Akal Takht Sahib are selected and removed from their pockets, which is totally unfair.”

Referring to claims of development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “The former Deputy Chief Minister claims that massive development of the state took place during their regime but turns blind eye towards Kotakpura, Behbal Kalan and others where sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib took place and innocents were killed.”

Taking a jibe at the Akali Dal's Punjab Bachao Yatra, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The real name of this gimmick of Akali Dal is parivar bachao yatra.” He added, “I dare the Akali leaders to explain that after looting the state for 15 years, from whom they are trying to save the state.”

He said, “Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly, bruised the psyche of Punjabis emotionally and patronized several mafias.” He asserted, “The Akali leadership can never be forgiven as it was responsible for the genocide of several generations, as the drug trade was patronized by them and bloomed during their long misrule.”

Continuing, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Akalis should be booked for the genocide of generations as the drug trade was patronized by them and flourished during their long misrule.” He added, “The hands of these leaders are drenched with the blood of millions of youth who fell prey to drugs supplied in the state in their official vehicles.” He said, “The sins of these leaders are unpardonable and they can never be forgiven by the people for their long saga of misdeeds.”

Meanwhile, outlining legislative action, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government has convened the special session of the state assembly on April 13 to amend the Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008.” He added, “Anyone attempting sacrilege will face the strictest punishment, with a minimum of 10 years and up to life imprisonment.” He further said, “The state government has roped in the best legal experts to frame the law, and the Sant Samaj is also being consulted.”

Coming down heavily on the Akali leadership, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These are opportunist leaders who change their colors and stance like a chameleon as per their convenience and vested political interests.” He added, “Everyone knows that this family was a stooge of Britishers and was conferred the title of Sir by them for hobnobbing against patriots.” He further stated, “The family had feted General Dyer, the perpetrator of Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919, by hosting a dinner for him after this heinous incident.”

He said, “This act exposed their anti-national and anti-Punjab mindset.” He added, “Not only this, the family also ensured that General Dyer was bestowed siropa and forgiveness at Golden Temple.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “It is even more shocking that Jathedar Arood Singh, who granted the siropa, was the maternal grandfather of former Lok Sabha MP Simarjit Singh Mann.”

Emphasising history, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “History cannot be wiped out and the dubious characters of Badal’s ancestors are etched on its pages.” He added, “The hands of this family are drenched with the blood of patriots and their role in backstabbing nationalists can never be forgotten.”

Calling out the Congress, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In Congress every leader is aspiring to become the head of the state. They have more CMs than workers.” He added, “Their top leader has snubbed them publicly during a recent rally.” He further remarked, “The Congress is a divided house that will collapse due to infighting.” He said, “It is a pity that leaders sent to unite them are not even aware how to pronounce their names.”

Outlining the 2027 choice, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “People will have three pens to choose from.” He explained, “The first pen is Congress with red ink symbolising attack on Sri Harmandir Sahib, riots of 1984 and other anti-Sikh stances.” He added, “The second pen is of Akalis with one ink of desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.” He asserted, “The third pen is AAP, which is transforming Punjab into Rangla Punjab through path-breaking initiatives.”

Highlighting governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has taken several pro-people initiatives leading to visible transformation.” He added, “The tax money of people is being judiciously spent on welfare, with people’s money returning through development, schools, hospitals and roads.”

Detailing achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We have provided free electricity to 90% households, over 65,000 jobs without corruption, improved roads, closed toll plazas saving ₹70 lakh daily and strengthened infrastructure.” He further said, “Canal water usage has increased from 22% to 71% and will reach 90% by the coming paddy season.”

Emphasising education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Freebies cannot eliminate poverty; education is the key to uplift people.” He added, “Education is the light that dispels darkness, which is why we are prioritising it.”

On healthcare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, health cards are being issued to 65 lakh families.” He added, “Each family is entitled to free treatment up to ₹10 lakh, with over 30 lakh cards issued and 1.65 lakh treatments already provided.” He urged people to avail benefits.

On power supply, he said, “For the first time, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power has been supplied to farm tube wells during paddy season.” He added, “Farmers are receiving daytime electricity, transforming their lives.” He reiterated, “Every penny of the state exchequer is being used for public welfare.”

Referring to social welfare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, ₹1000 per month is being given to other category women and ₹1500 to SC women above 18 years.”

Calling the gathering an interaction, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This is not a political rally but a platform to connect with people.” He added, “Previous governments played musical chairs and plundered the state, but people voted for change, leading to transformation in schools, hospitals and other sectors.”

Referring to Jaito, he said, “This sacred land has always scripted history and contributed immensely to Punjab’s destiny.” He added, “Traditional leaders were born with silver spoons and never suffered for the country.” He said, “They believe they have a divine right to rule, but in democracy people are supreme.”

Taking a swipe at Sukhbir Singh Badal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Instead of discussing education and welfare, he talks about buffaloes, reflecting a narrow mindset.” He added, “Despite getting multiple chances, they looted the state and were rejected by people.”

Criticising opposition conduct, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Instead of raising real issues, they indulge in mudslinging and wait for their turn to plunder resources.” He added, “Their only aim is power, not public welfare.”

Reiterating AAP’s agenda, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We talk about education, health, power and agriculture, while others focus on grabbing power.” He added, “Their agenda is family welfare, ours is people’s welfare.” He said, “Due to their misrule, people elected Aam Aadmi Party, which is working tirelessly.”

Reminding people of past regimes, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Traditional parties have never been loyal to Punjab.” He added, “They are envious because AAP has set the agenda of welfare.” He further said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal is not even aware of Punjab’s basic topography but seeks power.”

Targeting other leaders, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Captain Amarinder Singh and his family have consistently stood with forces inimical to Punjab.” He added, “AAP was formed to transform the system, and Punjab is progressing rapidly, especially in education and health.”

On national issues, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those ruling the country are not acquainted with people’s well being.” He added, “The country is led by a master of phraseology who spends significant time abroad and remains disconnected from ground realities.” He said, “The LPG and oil crisis should have been anticipated.”

Earlier, AAP Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia said, “It is a matter of immense pride that Bhagwant Singh Mann has proved to be the most popular Chief Minister.” He added, “He is the only Chief Minister working for people’s welfare, and the party will return to power with a massive mandate.”

Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Cabinet Ministers Dr Baljeet Kaur and Dr Balbir Singh and others were also present.

CHANDIGARH, 26 March 2026: Marking four years of the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the party launched a massive statewide outreach campaign titled “Shandaar 4 Saal, Bhagwant Mann de Naal,” taking its governance record directly to people across villages and urban wards.

Ministers, MLAs, and constituency in-charges fanned out across nearly 1,000 villages and wards in a single day, engaging with citizens and highlighting key achievements of the Punjab Government. The campaign witnessed strong public participation, with many expressing satisfaction over governance and welfare delivery.

Interacting with people in Sham Chaurasi, Cabinet Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh said that Punjab’s government schools are now being recognized across the country. He highlighted that over 28,000 teachers were recruited transparently and trained internationally, leading to students clearing competitive exams like JEE and NEET.

Highlighting power sector reforms in Ludhiana West, Power Minister Sanjeev Arora said the government has ensured zero electricity bills for 90% of households, along with 24-hour uninterrupted power supply.

Speaking in Bhoa, Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak emphasized the crackdown on drugs, stating that over 92,000 drug smugglers have been jailed. He also noted that 65,000 government jobs have been provided purely on merit.

In Jandiala, Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO highlighted healthcare reforms, noting that 985 Aam Aadmi Clinics have provided free treatment to over 5 crore people, with ₹10 lakh cashless health cover for families.

Addressing a gathering in Malout, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur spoke about women-centric schemes, including the Mawan-Dhian Satkar Yojana, which provides ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 monthly financial support to women, along with free bus travel.

In Jalandhar West, Minister Mohinder Bhagat highlighted agricultural support, stating that farmers are receiving free daytime electricity and canal water has reached tail-end fields after decades. Crop payments are now being credited within 24 hours.

Speaking in Lehra, Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal highlighted welfare initiatives, including ₹1 crore ex gratia for martyrs’ families—the highest in the country—and the formation of the Road Safety Force, which has reduced road accident deaths by 50%.

He added that in the past four years, the government has constructed 40,000 kilometers of roads, 9,000 playgrounds, and 6,000 gyms, moving towards restoring the vision of ‘Rangla Punjab.’

During the outreach drive, leaders reiterated that the government is focused on ensuring last-mile delivery, taking the benefits of governance to every household across Punjab.

Positioning this as part of a massive 43,000 km road network being built across Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann underlined that strict accountability will ensure durability, announced plans to eliminate electricity poles through underground wiring, and expressed confidence that a satisfied electorate will return the government with a decisive mandate.

Addressing the rally, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In the last four years, the state government has done more work than others did in 70 years. The state government is moving forward, and in 2027, the state will take this development to the next level. The development is coupled with a number of pro-people policies aimed at ensuring the well being of the common man.”

Expressing confidence in public support, he added, “It is a writing on the wall that with the active support of the common man, the Aam Aadmi Party will again form the government in 2027. Owing to the pro-people and development oriented policies of the state government, we will again win more than 100 seats in the ensuing Vidhan Sabha polls. The massive support shown by the people is a testimony to this fact that people are waiting to teach traditional parties a lesson by again showing them the door.”

Highlighting the contrast with opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government is working tirelessly for welfare of people whereas the opposition has always sought share in the successful ventures during their days in power.” He added, “These leaders want to ruin the state by patronizing drugs and criminals due to which people had ousted them from power. Now all these anti-Punjab forces have joined hands to ruin Punjab and the time has come when Punjabis should also join hands to show them the door.”

Taking a dig at the Akali Dal, he said, “The real name of this gimmick of Akali Dal is ‘parivar bachao yatra’. After looting the state for 15 years, from whom are they trying to save Punjab? Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly, bruised the psyche of Punjabis emotionally and patronized several mafias.” He added, “People are well aware of the dubious character of the Akalis and Badal family due to which their theatricals won’t work now.”

The Chief Minister further said, “These leaders had patronized the gangsters in the state and infused drugs in the veins of the youth by shielding the drug smugglers. Akali Dal has always misused religion for their vested political interests but this time people will not get swayed away by it. The Akali leadership is building castles in the air to mislead the people of the state, but Punjabis will not fall prey to it.”

Targeting the Congress, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Congress leaders are daydreaming to assume power in the state. The Congress party is a divided house that will collapse due to their infighting. It is a pity that top Congress leaders are squabbling for power and have no vision for the state. Their only aim is to plunder the wealth of Punjab by assuming power, but their dreams will never be fulfilled.” He added, “Earlier these traditional parties just waited for their turn to grab power but now the broom is there to clean the mess created by these parties.”

Announcing a major welfare initiative, he said, “The state government has started Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana under which every woman will be entitled for ₹1,000 per month and ₹1,500 per month for women belonging to Scheduled Castes. Funds will be directly transferred to bank accounts and women already receiving social security pensions will also be eligible. Around 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit and the state government has allotted ₹9,300 crore in the budget. Registration will begin from April 13.”

Responding to criticism of the scheme, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who are mocking the state government over the launch of the scheme or are raising baseless queries don’t know the value of ₹1,000 for the common man. These people who spend more than ₹5,000 per meal from illegally minted money don’t value this amount, which is a big financial assistance for those who have to work hard even on festivals. The wives of these affluent leaders don’t need ₹1,000 as they spend more on cosmetics.”

On infrastructure, he said, “The AAP Government has embarked on a major program for repair of link roads across the state. There are a total of 43,000 kilometers of link roads and the state government has launched a project for their repair and upgradation. Along with repairing these roads, their maintenance will also be carried out for the next five years.”

Highlighting regional development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that this development meeting has been transformed into a massive rally. Punjab has seen a massive transformation in the last four years as water has reached areas where it hadn’t for 50–60 years.” He added, “This is a border area where professionals like doctors and teachers hesitate to serve, which is why the state government has made it mandatory for them to serve at least two years in border areas.”

He further said, “These teachers and doctors will receive extra allowance and additional points for promotions. The children of this region are extremely talented.” Sharing an anecdote, he added, “In 2008–09, I visited Donana village where a girl topped Punjab in 5th grade. Her family couldn’t afford further education, so I arranged sponsorship and got her admitted to Baru Sahib Academy. When veterinary doctors were appointed, she was among them.”

Emphasising opportunity creation, the Chief Minister said, “This proves that our children are not lacking, only opportunities are missing, and the state government is now providing these opportunities.” He added, “Earlier leaders like Sukhbir Badal were MLAs and even Deputy Chief Ministers from this region but no real work was done. They deliberately kept people poor so that voters would ask only for small favors during elections. They called this region ‘tail end’, but I consider it the ‘frontline’.”

Criticising past governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This area has small shopkeepers, traders and farmers. People voted massively for traditional parties in the past, but previous governments looted Punjab. These leaders drained resources like parasites and even today they have no agenda, only hunger for power. They try to outdo each other in abusing me and sending videos to their high command for mercy.”

Outlining achievements, he said, “The state government has provided free electricity to 90% of households, jobs to over 65,000 youth without corruption, improved roads, closed toll plazas saving ₹70 lakh daily, and is building infrastructure. The tax money of people belongs to the state and we are judiciously spending it on their welfare. People’s money is coming back to them through development, schools, hospitals and roads.”

He added, “Earlier this money was misused due to corruption, but now we have checked these pilferages for the well being of the people and the state.” Highlighting a breakthrough, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has traced the 22 km long Sarhali Minor canal in the Majha region which was buried underground. This canal is now operational due to the concerted efforts of the state government.”

On irrigation reforms, he said, “Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusec, but due to our efforts supply of 10,000 cusec has been ensured. In that sense, the state has carved out a new Bhakra canal without acquiring even a single inch of land.” He added, “For decades farmers drew water from Ferozepur and Sirhind canals in rotation, but for the first time this system has ended, providing major relief.”

On groundwater recovery, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Groundwater extraction rate has reduced from 61.49% in 2022 to 31.6% in 2025. Groundwater has recharged up to 4 metres in several villages, which is heartening.”

Looking ahead, he said, “This is the result of honest governance and in the coming times we aim to implement underground electricity lines across Punjab. This will make fields cleaner, prevent accidents and ensure better supply. If the pilot succeeds, it will be expanded.”

Reiterating his government’s approach, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “People used to say nothing would change, no jobs, no roads, no development, but we have proven them wrong.”

Cabinet Ministers, MLAs and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

Hitting back strongly, AAP Punjab State Media Incharge Baltej Pannu stated, “By holding the AAP government responsible for incidents of 'beadbi' (sacrilege), Sukhbir Singh Badal is making a failed attempt to save his political ground, but he has forgotten that the people of Punjab are well aware of his reality.”

Questioning his claims, Baltej Pannu said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal says incidents of 'beadbi'  began in Punjab after AAP came to power. Perhaps he has forgotten that in 1986, when the Sri Guru Granth Sahib was desecrated in Nakodar and four youths demanding justice were martyred, whose government was in power in Punjab? Was the Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab at that time? The people of Punjab have not forgotten which forces were behind that bloody episode.”

Referring to the 2015 incidents, he continued, “Who was in power when the sacred saroop of Guru Granth Sahib was stolen from Burj Jawahar Singh Wala in June 2015? The desecration of the stolen bir took place in October 2015. During this entire period, the Badal family was in power in Punjab. Was there an AAP government in Punjab at that time?” The truth is that it was your government that patronised the culprits.”

Citing police action and subsequent developments, he added that at Kotkapura’s Chowk, police carried out brutality on peacefully protesting sangat, and during the firing at Behbal Kalan, two innocent Sikhs were martyred. The reports of the Justice Ranjit Singh Commission and the Justice Zora Singh Commission clearly point towards who the real faces behind these incidents were. Today, Sukhbir Singh Badal himself is out on bail in the Kotkapura case. Along with him, Sumedh Saini, Charanjit Sharma, and Umranangal are also out on bail, which stands as testimony to the dark deeds of that regime.

Baltej Pannu said, “The Akali Dal’s rule from 2007 to 2017 is a dark chapter in Punjab’s history. No one else but Sukhbir Singh Badal and his party are responsible for pushing Punjab into an era of drugs, corruption, and 'beadbi'. To escape their responsibilities, they are now making baseless allegations against AAP, but the people of Punjab will never forget or forgive them.”

The Aam Aadmi Party set up large screens in various cities and villages across Punjab to show the video report of well-known independent journalist Dhruv Rathee to the general public. In this video, Dhruv Rathee has clearly demonstrated, on the basis of facts and evidence, how the BJP-led central government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah together fabricated a completely false and fake liquor scam case with the intention of defaming Aam Aadmi Party leaders and politically targeting them.

It is noteworthy that the Hon’ble court had also dismissed the alleged liquor scam case, clearly stating that the case was fabricated. This decision of the court further strengthened the fact that the BJP government had created the entire case purely as a political conspiracy.

In his video report, Dhruv Rathee explained in detail how this entire case was part of a well-planned conspiracy by the BJP to curb the rising popularity of the Aam Aadmi Party and to weaken democracy by implicating its leaders in false cases.

With the aim of placing all these facts before the court of the people, the Aam Aadmi Party carried out this campaign across the state today. There is strong resentment among the people against this conspiracy of the BJP, and people expressed their support for the Aam Aadmi Party.

AAP Punjab Media In-charge Baltej Pannu said, “Ever since Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann presented evidence-backed facts that under the 1920 agreement, Rajasthan owes Punjab ₹1.44 lakh crore in lieu of water received since 1960, why have leaders of Congress, Akali Dal, and BJP, who ruled for 70 years, are silent on this matter? These parties have no answers to the questions being asked by the people.”

Targeting BJP Punjab President Sunil Jakhar, he stated, “Jakhar Sahib, the same leaders who were once in Congress with you are now sitting with you in BJP, those who carried ‘golden and silver tools’ to dig canals through Punjab’s chest and divert its waters to other states. Why are you silent on those betrayals today? The people of Punjab understand the meaning of your silence very well.”

He further stated that the same traditional parties that had pushed Punjab to the brink of becoming barren have been countered by the Bhagwant Mann government, which has revived the state within just four years. “While earlier only 22% canal water reached the fields, today, due to the efforts of the Mann government, that figure has increased to 78%. Not only this, canals and distributaries that were buried by previous governments in collusion with the land mafia are now being revived. The restoration of the buried ‘Lambi Canal’ stands as a living example of this,” he added.

Baltej Pannu added, “Opposition parties and leaders are troubled by new developments because their old conspiracies and betrayals buried beneath the soil have now come to light. Those who looted and exploited Punjab for 70 years and sold its rights to other states have now been exposed.”

Reaffirming the commitment of the AAP Government, he said, “As long as CM Bhagwant Singh Mann is in office, every single penny and every right of Punjab will remain fully protected.”

Addressing a gathering in Ropar, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said Kanshi Ram Ji played a historic role in spreading the ideology of Babasaheb Ambedkar and awakening the Bahujan society across the country. “During my student life, I had the opportunity to work closely with Kanshi Ram Ji and learn from his mission of social transformation. At a time when many people knew little about Babasaheb Ambedkar’s ideology, Kanshi Ram Ji travelled from village to village, often on foot and bicycle, to spread awareness and unite the Bahujan community. He devoted his entire life to taking the message of equality and justice to the grassroots,” stated Harpal Singh Cheema.

Harpal Singh Cheema added that Kanshi Ram Ji’s message of ensuring political participation for marginalized communities continues to inspire him and many others in public life. “It was his call to the Bahujan society to claim its rightful share in politics that motivated many of us to enter public service and work for social change,” noted Harpal Singh Cheema.

Highlighting the initiatives of the Punjab Government, Harpal Singh Cheema said the government led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is working to implement the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar in governance. “The AAP Government has taken historic steps to ensure reservation in the office of the Advocate General in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, creating opportunities for young lawyers from underprivileged backgrounds,” stated Harpal Singh Cheema.

Emphasising the government’s focus on education, Harpal Singh Cheema said reforms in government schools are enabling students from ordinary families to clear competitive examinations such as JEE and NEET and aspire for top positions in the country. “The AAP Government is strengthening public education so that children from common families can realise their dreams and secure top positions in the country,” added Harpal Singh Cheema.

Harpal Singh Cheema further highlighted various welfare initiatives of the Punjab Government, including free electricity, improved healthcare facilities, and financial assistance schemes aimed at empowering women and economically weaker families.

Meanwhile, AAP leader Pawan Kumar Tinu also addressed a gathering in Jalandhar and paid tribute to Kanshi Ram Ji, describing him as a fearless leader who dedicated his life to organizing and empowering marginalized communities. “Kanshi Ram Ji’s life and struggle remain a source of inspiration for all of us. We must follow his ideals of social equality, unity and political awareness,” stated Pawan Kumar Tinu.

Pawan Kumar Tinu added that the AAP government in Punjab is committed to ensuring that every section of society gets equal opportunities and dignity, in line with the vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram Ji.

Garg questioned why the Municipal Corporation officials opened and maintained such large deposits in a private bank like IDFC First Bank instead of nationalised banks such as State Bank of India (SBI) or Punjab National Bank (PNB), which are generally considered safer for public funds. He asked the administration to clarify, who authorised the opening of this account and under whose instructions the deposits were placed in the private bank.

He further said that the claim made by MC officials that the money has been refunded by the bank is misleading and incorrect. According to him, the amount may remain under lien until the case is fully adjudicated by the competent court or specific permission is granted for its release. Such legal proceedings may take several months, meaning the funds are effectively blocked and unavailable for public use.

Prem Garg also criticised the Municipal Corporation for failing to take meaningful action in several previous scams. He cited examples such as the Paid Parking Scam, the forged Bank Guarantee case of CITCO, and the illegal collection of money by enforcement staff from street vendors, which allegedly runs into crores of rupees. He stated that in most of these cases, no significant action has been taken against the guilty officials, which encourages further corruption.

“The people of Chandigarh deserve transparency and accountability. Public money cannot be allowed to be misused in this manner,” Garg said.

He demanded that:

The entire case be handed over to the CBI for a fair and independent investigation.

All officials and individuals involved in the diversion of funds be identified immediately.

Arrests be made without delay of those in whose accounts the money has been transferred.

A complete audit of all Municipal Corporation deposits and financial transactions be conducted.

Prem Garg asserted that the Aam Aadmi Party will continue to raise this issue until every rupee of public money is secured and all those responsible for the fraud are brought to justice.

Demands accountability from AAP govt for the ruined 1,200-acre industrial complex in Goindwal Sahib.

Asserts public is fed up with AAP's lies and returning to the Shiromani Akali Dal.

Tarn Taran March 09, 2026: Hitting out at Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's development announcements in Gurdaspur today, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Vice President and former Khadoor Sahib MLA Ravinder Singh Brahmpura termed them mere "political theatrics". He challenged the Chief Minister to first explain why the sprawling 1,200-acre industrial complex established at Goindwal Sahib during the SAD tenure has now been reduced to "ruins".
Addressing a massive workers' meeting at Kang Khurd village today, Brahmpura highlighted the growing disillusionment with the AAP government and the visible resurgence of enthusiasm for the Akali Dal at the grassroots level.

Using facts and figures, Brahmpura exposed the AAP government's claims regarding the Goindwal Sahib (GVK) Thermal Plant. "The Chief Minister's daily claims about a profitable electricity board and a power-surplus state are white lies. This 540 MW plant was established in 2016 by the SAD government. After the private company went bankrupt, the AAP government merely purchased it and enacted the drama of changing its name. Without laying a single new brick, they are stealing credit for SAD projects," he stated.

Exposing this "data manipulation," Brahmpura questioned how a 540 MW plant could make Punjab 'surplus' when the state's power demand peaks at 16,000 MW during the paddy season. "The reality is that due to unpaid free-power subsidies, PSPCL is bleeding financially and is forced to take loans worth thousands of crores just to buy coal for daily operations," he asserted.
Energizing the workers, Brahmpura said the SAD is Punjab's only true pro-development party. "Today's gathering proves that the Akali Dal's popularity is soaring again, and the people of Punjab will show the door to this government of false 'change' in the 2027 elections," he concluded.

The event was attended by senior SAD leader Dalbir Singh Jahangeer, Chairman Gursewak Singh Sheikh, prominent farmer leader Maghar Singh, Kawarjit Singh (Kang Khurd), Kartar Singh, Ajaib Singh, Gurpal Singh, Gurdial Singh, Manjinder Singh, Mitha Aadi, and a large number of Akali workers. - END -

Photo Caption: SAD leader Ravinder Singh Brahmpura sharing his views with workers at Kang Khurd village, flanked by Jathedar Dalbir Singh Jahangeer and Chairman Gursewak Singh Sheikh.

In this regard, today, the occasion was celebrated with women in the offices of all MLAs of the city and they were informed about this scheme.

On this occasion, a press conference was held at the office of Cabinet Minister and MLA of West constituency Mr. Sanjeev Arora ji by District President Jatinder Singh Khangura and detailed information was given to women about this scheme.

Aam Aadmi Party believes that making women economically strong is very important for the progress of the society and thousands of families will benefit from this scheme.

 On this occasion, District President Jatinder Singh Khangura and Councilors Gurpreet Babbal, Sunny Master, Manis Sah and Nandini Jayarath and other colleagues thanked the party high command and said that this decision is a big step towards the welfare of women and making them self-reliant.

Under leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Government is waging relentless war against drug peddlers: Baltej Pannu

Drug peddlers must leave Punjab or face severe and uncompromising action: Baltej Pannu

LUDHIANA, 4th March 2026: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)’s Media Head Punjab and Chief Spokesperson of Nasha Mukti Morcha Baltej Pannu on Wednesday visited an anti-drug crusader undergoing treatment at Mohan Dai Hospital after the activist was injured in an attack by individuals involved in drug peddling. During the visit, Baltej Pannu met the whistleblower and their family to extend solidarity and assure them of full support from the Punjab Government.

Baltej Pannu was accompanied by MLA Kulwant Singh Sidhu along with members of Nasha Mukti Morcha Punjab. He conveyed that the Bhagwant Mann Government stands rock-solid with those who are courageously confronting the drug menace and exposing those involved in peddling.

Baltej Pannu said, “The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is waging a relentless and multi-dimensional war against drug peddlers and smugglers. We will completely eliminate this curse from Punjab.”

He reiterated that the decisive campaign Yudh Nashean Virudh has entered its final and most intensive phase, with the Punjab Government determined to eradicate drugs from Punjab completely.

Baltej Pannu also assured the injured crusader’s family that the Punjab Government is extending full support and assistance. “The government is providing complete support to the victim’s family. I will personally remain in constant touch and ensure every possible assistance during the recovery process,” he said.

Issuing a strong warning to those involved in drug trafficking, Baltej Pannu said, “Drug peddlers must either leave Punjab or face severe and uncompromising action. We will not rest until the drug menace is eradicated entirely from Punjab.”

He added that the Punjab Government has already intensified its crackdown through widespread arrests, attachment of properties of drug traffickers, convictions under the NDPS Act, and community participation through around 1.5 lakh volunteers of Nasha Mukti Morcha who are actively supporting the campaign to eliminate drugs from Punjab.