ਮੁੱਖ ਮੰਤਰੀ Bhagwant Mann on Monday urged Opposition leaders not to create fear among the ਲੋਕ and instead support efforts to bring peace and progress to ਪੰਜਾਬ. He said the state had already suffered during the dark times of terrorism and violence, and it was time for responsible politics.
Mann made these comments at Punjabi University during an event marking the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. BR Ambedkar. His remarks followed the recent controversy involving Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa, who claimed in a TV interview that 50 bombs had been smuggled into ਪੰਜਾਬ, and 18 had already been used. The ਪੁਲਿਸ have registered a case against Bajwa for allegedly spreading false information that could harm national security.
Taking a swipe at Bajwa, CM Mann said, “Now, when he’s been asked for proof, he’s bringing in a lawyer.” He added that the Opposition is free to criticize him but should not spread panic among the public.
Mann also addressed recent incidents aimed at disturbing peace in the state, including the defacing of a statue of Dr. Ambedkar. He said his ਸਰਕਾਰ would deal strictly with anyone trying to create communal tension.
Reaffirming his ਸਰਕਾਰ’s strict stand against drugs, the CM said that action against drug peddlers would continue, including demolishing properties linked to them. “Their wealth is soaked in the blood of innocent youths,” he said.
He also mentioned the ਸਰਕਾਰ’s efforts to revive Punjabi University, which was facing a financial crisis earlier. “We are now giving Rs 30 crore every month to ensure stability and regular salaries for the staff,” he added.
