Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that the BJP has come to power in West Bengal and was already ruling in Assam, but Punjab is different and has recently witnessed a change. He remarked that the BJP should not assume it can do the same in Punjab, saying that Punjabis are firm on their stand and do not easily back down.
Responding to statements that BJP could emerge strong in Punjab in the future, Mann dismissed such claims as “daydreams,” saying Punjab is the land of farmers, warriors, saints, and writers, and its people are politically aware and make informed voting decisions. He also pointed out that the BJP currently has only one MLA in the state and no Lok Sabha MP from Punjab.
Mann accused the BJP of causing significant harm to Punjab, including withholding RDF funds and alleged that around 700 farmers lost their lives during protests. He added that the party has consistently opposed Punjab on various issues.
He further said that the BJP has, at times, talked about taking away the state’s university, separating Chandigarh, and claiming control over Bhakra Dam water management. Mann criticized these claims, saying the BJP has never genuinely raised Punjab’s rights.
Referring to leaders like Sunil Jakhar, Captain Amarinder Singh, and Union Minister Ravneet Bittu, he questioned the BJP’s credibility in the state and said the public is aware of everything and will not be misled.
