Chandigarh, Nov 4 (PTI) Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday slammed the BJP-led Centre over raids by the central agencies against some AAP leaders in Punjab, asserting that these raids would not deter his government from working relentlessly for people of the state.
Reacting to the raids at the residence of AAP MLA Amandeep Kaur, Mann alleged that central agencies were being “directed” by the BJP to target opposition leaders and suppress dissent, but they would find nothing against AAP leaders who had been serving people with honesty and dedication.
The chief minister asserted that “intimidation” and “political vendetta” would neither weaken the AAP nor derail Punjab’s development agenda.
He added that the Union government should focus on addressing people’s concerns rather than “misusing” investigating agencies to settle political scores.
Speaking to reporters, Mann said, “The BJP-led Union government is using central agencies as political weapons to intimidate opposition leaders and silence those questioning its policies.”
“These agencies are free to conduct raids at the behest of their political masters, but they will find nothing against AAP leaders who have been working honestly and discharging their responsibilities with dedication,” he said.
Such tactics will neither frighten the Aam Aadmi Party nor weaken our commitment to serving the people of Punjab, he said.
“The people of Punjab have given us a mandate for change and development, and no amount of political intimidation can derail this mission,” said the CM.
Calling out the Centre, Mann said instead of using investigating agencies to settle “political scores”, the Union government should focus on addressing the concerns of the people.
“Political conspiracies and pressure tactics cannot distract us from fulfilling the promises made to Punjabis,” he said.
Responding to a question regarding political rallies, Mann said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other political leaders are free to organise rallies and exercise their democratic rights.
Democracy thrives on the freedom to express opinions and participate in political activities, and everyone has the constitutional right to do so, he said.
To a query, the CM said, “Merely becoming an MLA is not enough. Elected representatives also have a responsibility to stand firmly with their party, uphold its principles and actively contribute to organisational activities. Political responsibility does not end with winning an election.”
Highlighting the achievements of the AAP government, Mann said, “Our government has brought a major transformation in public service delivery through Aam Aadmi Clinics, improved government schools and the development of more than 2,000 playgrounds across Punjab. We are working continuously to provide better healthcare, quality education and modern infrastructure to the people.”
The CM also said his government has undertaken the cleaning of drains through the Seechewal Model and restored canal-water facilities in areas that had remained deprived of this lifeline for decades.
“These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to addressing long-pending problems and ensuring that the benefits of development reach every corner of Punjab,” he said.
Underscoring the government’s commitment to the farming community, Mann said, “Farmers in Punjab are now receiving electricity during morning hours, providing them much-needed relief. Our government understands the difficulties faced by farmers and is making every possible effort to improve agricultural facilities and ensure that they do not face unnecessary hardships.”
The CM said the state government is committed to ensuring that people from every section of society can undertake religious pilgrimages with dignity and convenience.
Responding to a query regarding the announcement of AAP candidates for 2027 assembly polls, Mann said, “The announcement of 40 candidates is part of an ongoing organisational process, and the remaining names will be announced in due course.”
Referring to the ongoing Asian Champions Trophy in Punjab, he invited sports enthusiasts to witness the high-voltage semifinal clash between India and South Korea.
“The overwhelming public response to the tournament and the presence of international hockey legends have once again demonstrated Punjab’s unmatched passion for hockey. Punjab has a rich sporting heritage, and our government is committed to strengthening this legacy through world-class sporting infrastructure and initiatives to encourage sports,” he said. PTI CHS KVK
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