CM Mann Dedicates School of Eminence and Government Nursing Training School in Sangrur, Flags Off 12 Mobile Cancer Screening Buses
Sangrur, August 11, 2025
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Monday, accused the Badal family of ruining Punjab politically, economically, and religiously, challenging Akali leader Sukhbir Singh Badal to name a single achievement from their prolonged misrule in the state.
Addressing a gathering, the Chief Minister took a dig at Sukhbir Singh Badal, stating that the Badals focused solely on expanding their business interests, neglecting the state and its people. He described the period from 2007 to 2017 as the darkest era in Punjab’s history, marked by the dominance of transport, cable, sand, drug, and other mafias. Mann challenged the Akali leader to highlight one achievement from their tenure, asserting that the drug menace flourished under their patronage.
The Chief Minister emphasized that his government is serving Punjab with dedication, holding accountable those responsible for crimes against the state. He cited the example of a drug kingpin currently imprisoned in Nabha Jail. Mann accused traditional parties of colluding with such elements, offering them protection while his government fights against them.
Targeting leaders from traditional parties supporting a former Akali minister jailed on drug charges, Mann expressed shock that Congress leaders Charanjit Singh Channi, Partap Singh Bajwa, Sukhpal Singh Khaira, BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh, and Ravneet Singh Bittu openly defend him. He accused these parties of covering up each other’s wrongdoings when in power and challenged them to clarify whether they stand with or against drug traffickers.
Mann further criticized these leaders for exploiting religion for personal gain, alleging that Sukhbir lacks knowledge of Punjab’s culture, topography, religion, and even basic Punjabi. He accused Sukhbir of being desperate for power and recalled his prediction that the Akali Dal, formed in 1920, would be eliminated by 2019. Mann claimed the party, once known for sacrifices, has now become synonymous with drug smuggling. He also described the Congress as a divided house, with its leaders vying for the Chief Minister’s post, lacking any vision for Punjab’s progress.
The Chief Minister stated that, unlike his predecessors, he has no experience in plundering public wealth but possesses the ability to empathize with people’s struggles and resolve their issues. He affirmed his commitment to Punjab’s welfare, undeterred by baseless attacks from political opponents envious of his common-man background. Mann criticized these leaders for believing they have a divine right to rule and for misleading the public for years, adding that people are no longer swayed by their propaganda.
Earlier, the Chief Minister dedicated the Jathedar Kartar Singh Darvesh Senior Secondary School in Sangrur, upgraded as a School of Eminence at a cost of Rs. 3.40 crore. The school has been equipped with modern facilities, including an auditorium, entrance gate, stage, park, shed, mid-day meal kitchen, workshops, laboratories, drinking water facilities, and classrooms. Mann noted that this globally renowned school has produced students who have excelled in various fields worldwide.
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He also dedicated the Government Nursing Training School in Sangrur, constructed at a cost of Rs. 7.81 crore. This modern facility offers a three-year General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course and includes a hostel, advanced laboratories, a mess with quality food, smart classrooms, a modern library, school bus service, and other amenities. Mann envisioned this institute as a boon for rural students who previously had to travel to Bathinda, Patiala, or other cities for nursing education.
The Chief Minister also flagged off 12 mobile cancer screening buses from World Cancer Care, which will conduct door-to-door camps across villages and towns to screen for cancer and raise awareness. He praised Dr. Kulwant Singh Dhaliwal, Chairman of World Cancer Care, for organizing 350 free cancer screening and awareness camps across Punjab to mark the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. These camps will offer free tests, including Mammography for breast cancer, Pap smear for cervical cancer, PSA test for prostate cancer, oral screening, bone density tests, blood tests, and other diagnostics.
Mann described the initiative as a historic step in the fight against cancer, providing door-to-door diagnostic and treatment facilities. He highlighted the severe impact of cancer in Punjab, particularly in the Malwa region, where the Bathinda-Bikaner train was infamously called the “Cancer Express.” The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the well-being of all sections of society.
