DHURI: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday said that India’s map and destiny would have looked very different if Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh had been the country’s first Prime Minister. Questioning why the nation remains trapped in outdated systems even decades after independence, he highlighted the sacrifices of revolutionaries like Kartar Singh Sarabha who laid down their lives for freedom. He asserted that it is “writing on the wall” that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will return to power in Punjab in 2027, as fulfilling all promises within four years has left the opposition without any major issue to contest.

CM Mann criticized traditional parties, saying that the Congress and Akali Dal-BJP “looted Punjab turn by turn,” and emphasized that his government is committed to protecting citizens’ rights. He recalled the sacrifice of 750 farmers who died during the agitation against the Centre’s three farm laws, adding that while the opposition fights for power, his government continues to fight for people’s welfare. The Chief Minister also highlighted actions against drug traffickers and corrupt leaders, asserting that previous governments shielded offenders while his administration ensured accountability.

On governance and development, CM Mann outlined the AAP government’s achievements, including initiatives in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He said 65 lakh families are now eligible for cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh, power tariffs have been reduced, more than 65,000 government jobs have been provided, and rural infrastructure and irrigation systems have been strengthened. Concluding, he said his sole focus is Punjab’s progress and the prosperity of its people. Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Singh Cheema, Dr Balbir Singh, and Barinder Goyal were also present at the event.
