Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of failing to address the state’s pressing concerns during his recent visit. Mann said that people across Punjab were expecting concrete announcements on key issues such as Minimum Support Price (MSP), farm loan waivers and a special financial package, but were left disappointed.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Progressive Punjab Investors Summit in SAS Nagar, the Chief Minister alleged that the Centre continues to ignore Punjab’s demands while withholding crucial funds and attempting to tarnish the state’s image.
Expectations from Centre Remain Unfulfilled
Mann stated that farmers and citizens had hoped for meaningful decisions that would directly impact their livelihoods. He said there was a strong expectation that the Union Home Minister would address long-standing demands like a legal guarantee of MSP, loan waivers for farmers and targeted support measures for the state.
Instead, he claimed, the visit failed to deliver any tangible outcomes, adding that such missed opportunities deepen the sense of neglect among the people of Punjab.
Allegations of Withheld Funds and Neglect
The Chief Minister also accused the central government of withholding Punjab’s rightful financial share, including funds under the Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Goods and Services Tax (GST). He further claimed that compensation amounting to ₹1,600 crore for flood relief has not been released, despite earlier assurances.
Mann remarked that during the devastating floods, central leaders visited the state but failed to provide substantial assistance, calling such visits symbolic rather than solution-driven.
Concerns Over Drugs and National Security
Raising serious concerns about drug trafficking, Mann emphasised that border security and prevention of cross-border smuggling fall under the Centre’s responsibility. He said that despite limited support, the Punjab Government has installed anti-drone systems along a 550-kilometre border stretch to curb smuggling activities.
He also questioned the lack of action in major drug seizure cases outside Punjab, pointing out that significant quantities of narcotics have been recovered in other states without visible accountability.
Gangsterism and Law Enforcement Issues
Highlighting the issue of organised crime, Mann described gangsterism as a national threat that requires coordinated action. He criticised the Union Government for not taking adequate steps to address the issue at a broader level, stressing that it affects the country’s unity and internal security.
Political Remarks and State Governance
The Chief Minister also took a dig at the BJP’s political ambitions in Punjab, questioning its organisational strength and ability to contest elections independently in the state. He asserted that divisive politics based on religion and hatred would not find ground in Punjab.
At the same time, Mann highlighted his government’s achievements, stating that over 65,000 government jobs have been provided to youth in the state. He contrasted this with unfulfilled promises made at the national level, particularly regarding employment and financial benefits.
Focus on Investment and Economic Growth
Amid the criticism, Mann underscored the state government’s efforts to strengthen Punjab’s economy and attract investment. He said the Progressive Punjab Investors Summit has received a strong response from industry leaders and investors exploring new opportunities.
According to him, the summit has created a collaborative platform where businesses are engaging in discussions and identifying potential areas for growth in the state.
The Chief Minister reiterated that despite challenges, Punjab remains committed to economic development, welfare-oriented policies and maintaining social harmony.
