Batala (Gurdaspur), November 8,
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated a state-of-the-art Tehsil Complex in Batala, designed to streamline administrative services for residents under one roof. Speaking to the media, Mann described the facility as a milestone in delivering citizen-centric governance, marking “a new era of accessibility and efficiency.”
The Rs 10 crore complex, built on 1 acre and 5.5 kanals, serves 314 villages across six assembly constituencies: Batala, Fatehgarh Churian, Qadian, Sri Hargobindpur Sahib, Dera Baba Nanak, and Kahnuwan. Constructed after its foundation stone was laid on January 4, 2024, the facility houses offices for the SDM, Tehsildar, Kanungo, and Patwaris, alongside a modern e-Registry office and a citizen service center. Amenities include a lift, a well-furnished waiting room, comfortable seating, and clean drinking water. Its proximity to the Judicial Complex and Police Lines enhances administrative convenience.
Mann expressed pride in contributing to Batala’s development, emphasizing that the complex will simplify access to government services for thousands of residents.
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Political Stances and Criticisms
- Panjab University Issue: Mann accused the BJP-led central government of attempting a “backdoor entry” to alter the status of Panjab University, a cultural and academic cornerstone of Punjab. He vowed to resist any such moves to protect the state’s legacy and students’ interests.
- Anti-Punjab Sentiment: Labeling the BJP as having an “anti-Punjab syndrome,” Mann criticized their exclusion of Punjab’s tableaus from Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations and interference in institutions like the BBMB and Panjab University.
- Election Commission Concerns: Expressing alarm over the declining credibility of the Election Commission of India (ECI), Mann urged the ECI to address allegations of EVM tampering and vote theft. He criticized the BJP for acting as the ECI’s mouthpiece, calling it detrimental to democracy.
- Congress Critique: Mann slammed the Congress leadership for their “feudal and anti-poor mindset,” citing derogatory remarks by leaders like Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and others against common people and even former Congress CMs. He accused them of consistently disrespecting Punjab’s populace.
State Government Achievements
Mann highlighted key initiatives of his government:
- Employment: Over 55,000 merit-based government jobs provided to youth.
- Road Safety: The Sadak Surakhya Force reduced road accident fatalities by 48%, earning praise from the Government of India.
- Education: Schools of Eminence enabled 265 students to qualify for JEE Mains, 44 for JEE Advanced, and 848 for NEET.
- Healthcare: 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics, with plans to exceed 1,000, have provided free medicine to 2 crore people.
- Power and Infrastructure: 90% of households receive free electricity, and closing 19 toll plazas saves residents Rs 67 lakh daily.
Commemorative Plans
Mann announced events to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji, including a Rs 70 crore development plan for 140 towns and villages linked to the ninth Sikh Guru. A special Vidhan Sabha session is scheduled in Sri Anandpur Sahib from November 23-25, 2025.
The event was attended by MLA Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi and other dignitaries, underscoring the state’s commitment to inclusive growth and governance.
