Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed serious concerns regarding the potential return of traditional opposition parties to power, stating it poses a risk to the welfare schemes currently benefiting the state. During a recent ‘Lok Milni’ programme, Mann highlighted his apprehension that these political rivals might roll back key initiatives such as free electricity, free bus travel for women, and the Rs 1,000 ‘Samman Rashi’.

He accused the opposition of attempting to undermine essential public services, alleging that Mohalla Clinics and government schools would be weakened to favour private institutions. Mann’s comments reflect growing unease about the impact of political shifts on public welfare, particularly as his government has made significant strides in providing these services.

Water Resource Management and State Exclusion

During the event held in Sansra village, Ajnala, Mann raised concerns over Punjab’s exclusion from discussions regarding the Kishau Multipurpose Project, a collaborative water-sharing initiative attended by several states, including Himachal Pradesh and Delhi. This project involves constructing a 232.6-metre-high dam on the Tons River, which would significantly enhance water storage in the region.

Mann claimed that Punjab is being sidelined in vital decisions concerning its water resources, stating, “Agreements are being made between Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan and other states, but Punjab is not even invited.” He stressed that this exclusion is of great concern to the people of Punjab, as decisions impacting their water rights are being taken without their involvement.

He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of seeking to allocate Punjab’s water resources to neighbouring states like Haryana and Rajasthan while simultaneously excluding Punjab from essential discussions. His comments underscore the ongoing tension regarding water distribution in the region.

Progress and Development Under Current Govt

Mann shifted the focus to his government’s achievements, asserting that 90 per cent of households in Punjab are receiving zero electricity bills. He outlined several initiatives, including the purchase of a private thermal power plant at Goindwal Sahib, improvements in canal water usage from 22 per cent to 88 per cent, and the laying of 14,000 kilometres of underground pipelines aimed at enhancing statewide infrastructure.

He expressed pride in his administration’s work in the water sector, emphasising the commitment to efficiently utilise available water resources. Mann described the government’s objective as building a prosperous ‘Rangla Punjab’, ensuring equitable access to resources for every family. In a pointed remark towards his political adversaries, Mann claimed that previous governments had neglected Punjab’s larger interests, utilising political power for personal gain.

He contrasted this with the current administration’s focus on public welfare, asserting that the people of Punjab are well aware of the declining fortunes of opposition parties. He concluded by insisting that his government would persistently advocate for the rights and interests of Punjab, particularly in water-related matters.

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