Lehra, October 4
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann strongly criticized opposition parties for creating obstacles in the state’s progress to serve their political interests, while reaffirming his government’s commitment to Punjab’s development. Speaking at a public gathering in Lehra after dedicating multiple development projects worth ₹20.61 crore, he accused opposition leaders of having a narrow mindset towards Punjab and its people.
Key Highlights:
-
Criticism of Opposition: Targeting Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, Mann stated that the Congress leader’s attempts to defame the government have failed due to a lack of substantive issues. He accused opposition leaders of eyeing a return to power but failing to address people’s aspirations. Reflecting on his past as an artist attending opposition rallies, Mann said he is now exposing their past misdeeds, noting that Punjab’s people have already rejected these leaders for their betrayals.
-
Development Projects:
-
Rural Link Roads: Mann highlighted the launch of a ₹4,150.42 crore project to repair and upgrade 19,491.56 km of rural link roads, emphasizing their role as economic arteries facilitating trade and connectivity. He directed the Punjab Mandi Board and PWD to ensure high-quality work and transparent use of funds.
-
PSPCL Office Complex: Mann laid the foundation stone for a new Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) office in Lehragaga, costing ₹4.69 crore, with a 10,000 sq. ft. built-up area over 2.34 acres. The complex, to be completed in 18 months, will house urban and rural sub-divisional offices and a complaint center, replacing outdated and rented facilities to improve public services.
-
Tehsil Complex: A new Tehsil Complex in Lehragaga, costing ₹15.92 crore, was announced, with a completion date of July 30, 2026. Spanning 51,881 sq. ft., it will include SDM, Sub-Registrar, Treasury, Labour Inspector, and Food Supply offices, offering all government services under one roof.
-
Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF): Mann noted a 48–49% reduction in road accident mortality due to the SSF, an initiative praised by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who urged other states to adopt it.
-
-
Education Initiatives: To ensure quality education in rural areas, Mann announced the establishment of new libraries and colleges, countering past claims of an empty state exchequer. He emphasized merit-based government jobs, reducing youth migration and instilling hope.
-
Welfare Schemes: The government is rolling out schemes for SC communities, farm laborers, and marginalized sections. Mann also highlighted the historic acquisition of the Goindwal Power Plant, previously owned by GVK Power, now named after Sri Guru Amar Das Ji. Additionally, Punjab provides 600 units of free electricity to 90% of households, resulting in zero electricity bills for most families.
-
Community Initiatives: Mann visited Aap Ki Rasoi by the Saurabh Goel Foundation, where nutritious meals are provided for ₹10 per plate, serving around 250 people daily. He praised the initiative for supporting daily wage laborers and urged other organizations to follow suit. He also inaugurated a new hall at the Saurabh Complex, named after the late social worker Saurabh Goel, which offers affordable venues for social and religious events, free for the poor.
-
Social Welfare: At an event blessing newly-wed couples, Mann distributed Shagun cheques, emphasizing mutual trust in marriage and the government’s commitment to citizens’ welfare.
watch……Punjab’s Bold Move: Protecting Classroom Time for Teachers
Mann’s Message:
Mann reiterated that Punjab’s wise and courageous people rejected traditional political parties in the 2022 elections for their anti-people policies. He assured that his government is working tirelessly to resolve long-pending issues and ensure the state’s progress, despite opposition attempts to mislead the public.
Attendees:
The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers Harpal Singh Cheema, Barinder Goyal, and Hardeep Singh Mundian.
