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CM Rekha Gupta-Led Delhi Government Plans to Roll Out New EV Policy Next Month

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The Delhi government is preparing to introduce a new Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, with officials indicating that the updated framework could be rolled out as early as next month. The move is aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric mobility and strengthening the capital’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable transportation.

CM Rekha Gupta-Led Delhi Government Plans to Roll Out New EV Policy Next Month

According to reports, the proposed policy is expected to build upon Delhi’s existing EV initiatives while introducing new measures to encourage the purchase and use of electric vehicles. The government is reviewing incentives, charging infrastructure requirements, and strategies to expand EV adoption across different vehicle categories.

The policy is also likely to focus on reducing air pollution

The policy is also likely to focus on reducing air pollution and lowering dependence on conventional fuel-powered vehicles. Delhi has been one of the leading states in promoting electric mobility, with EV registrations witnessing steady growth in recent years.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the government is exploring ways to further strengthen the electric vehicle ecosystem by supporting charging networks, encouraging private investment, and facilitating a smoother transition to green transportation.

Officials believe that the new policy will contribute to environmental sustainability while creating opportunities in the clean mobility sector. Increased EV adoption is also expected to help reduce emissions and improve urban air quality in the national capital.

The proposed EV policy forms part of the Delhi government’s broader efforts to promote sustainable development and modern transportation solutions. More details regarding incentives, implementation timelines, and eligibility criteria are expected once the final policy is officially announced.

CM Yogi Adityanath Pushes Rapid Rail Corridor Between Lucknow and Kanpur, Outer Ring Road for SCR Under Consideration

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The Uttar Pradesh government is moving ahead with plans to strengthen regional connectivity, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewing proposals for a rapid rail corridor between Lucknow and Kanpur and an outer ring road project for the State Capital Region (SCR).

CM Yogi Adityanath Pushes Rapid Rail Corridor Between Lucknow and Kanpur

The proposed rapid rail corridor is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Lucknow and Kanpur, two of Uttar Pradesh’s largest urban and economic centers. The project aims to improve daily commuting, support economic activity, and enhance transportation infrastructure in the region.

Outer Ring Road for SCR Under Consideration

According to reports, the government is also considering the development of an outer ring road as part of the broader State Capital Region plan. The proposed road network is intended to ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity to surrounding districts, and facilitate planned urban expansion around the state capital.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has consistently emphasized the importance of modern infrastructure in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for citizens. The rapid rail and road projects are expected to complement ongoing investments in expressways, highways, airports, and urban transport systems across Uttar Pradesh.

Officials believe that enhanced connectivity between Lucknow, Kanpur, and adjoining areas will attract investment, boost industrial development, and create new employment opportunities. Improved transportation networks are also expected to support smoother movement of people and goods across the region.

The proposed projects form part of Uttar Pradesh’s broader vision of developing world-class infrastructure and strengthening urban mobility. If implemented, the rapid rail corridor and outer ring road could become major additions to the state’s growing transportation network.

Bhagwant Mann: Punjab’s Road Infrastructure Push Wins Public Appreciation, Says AAP Punjab

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab has highlighted the state’s ongoing road infrastructure development, stating that large-scale road construction projects undertaken by the Bhagwant Mann-led government are transforming connectivity across Punjab.

Bhagwant Mann: Punjab’s Road Infrastructure Push Wins Public Appreciation, Says AAP Punjab

According to the party, several major road projects are being developed under the government’s infrastructure initiative, with newly constructed and upgraded roads improving travel convenience and strengthening links between urban and rural areas. The projects are aimed at enhancing transportation networks, supporting economic activity, and facilitating smoother movement for residents.

AAP Punjab claimed that people across the state are appreciating the visible improvements

AAP Punjab claimed that people across the state are appreciating the visible improvements in road infrastructure, describing the ongoing works as among the most significant development efforts witnessed in decades. The party stated that better roads are expected to benefit commuters, farmers, businesses, and local communities by reducing travel time and improving accessibility.

The Bhagwant Mann government has consistently emphasized infrastructure development as a key component of its governance agenda. Alongside investments in healthcare, education, and public services, the administration has focused on upgrading roads and transport facilities to support long-term economic growth.

Officials have maintained that modern road infrastructure plays a crucial role in attracting investment, boosting trade, and improving the overall quality of life. Improved connectivity is also expected to strengthen access to markets, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities across Punjab.

The road development projects form part of the state’s broader vision of accelerating growth and enhancing public infrastructure, with the government expressing confidence that these initiatives will contribute to Punjab’s future development and prosperity.

Anurag Dhanda Praises Punjab Government’s Action Against Anti-Peace Activities

Aam Aadmi Party leader Anurag Dhanda has lauded the Punjab government’s stance on maintaining law and order, stating that any attempt to create unrest in the state will be met with firm action. His remarks underline the government’s commitment to ensuring peace, security, and stability across Punjab.

Anurag Dhanda Praises Punjab Government’s Action Against Anti-Peace Activities

In a social media post, Dhanda asserted that individuals involved in activities aimed at disturbing harmony in Punjab would face legal consequences, regardless of where they are located. He credited Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s administration for taking a strong position against elements allegedly seeking to disrupt peace in the state.

The comments come amid the Punjab government’s continued emphasis on strengthening law enforcement, combating organized crime, and maintaining public order. The state administration has repeatedly stated that it will take decisive action against those found involved in criminal activities or attempts to undermine communal harmony and security.

Punjab has witnessed several law enforcement campaigns in recent years

Dhanda’s statement also reflects the ruling party’s support for strict measures against individuals accused of threatening the state’s peace and stability. Government representatives have maintained that ensuring a safe environment for citizens remains one of their top priorities.

Punjab has witnessed several law enforcement campaigns in recent years targeting organized crime, drug trafficking, and other activities considered detrimental to public safety. State authorities have stressed the importance of coordinated action by security agencies to preserve law and order.

The remarks highlight the broader political narrative surrounding governance, security, and public confidence in Punjab, with the government emphasizing its commitment to protecting the interests of the state’s residents.

CM Yogi Adityanath Directs Completion of Four-Lane Road Connectivity Projects Across Uttar Pradesh

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Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure the timely completion of key road infrastructure projects across the state, emphasizing the need to strengthen connectivity and support economic growth. The instructions were issued during a review meeting of the Public Works Department’s action plan for the financial year 2026-27.

CM Yogi Adityanath Directs Completion of Four-Lane Road Connectivity Projects Across Uttar Pradesh

The Chief Minister called for the completion of projects aimed at connecting district headquarters through four-lane roads, improving roads linked to sugar mills, developing routes with single-road connectivity, and addressing accident-prone black spots. He stressed that these projects are essential for enhancing transportation efficiency, improving road safety, and facilitating regional development.

Yogi Adityanath also directed officials to ensure that all ongoing and upcoming infrastructure works are completed with quality and within stipulated timelines. He noted that improved road connectivity plays a vital role in boosting trade, agriculture, tourism, and access to public services across the state.

Highlighting the importance of citizen welfare during development activities

Highlighting the importance of citizen welfare during development activities, the Chief Minister instructed authorities to provide proper rehabilitation and adequate compensation to people affected by infrastructure projects. He emphasized that development should proceed in a manner that safeguards the interests and livelihoods of impacted families.

The state government has been undertaking large-scale investments in highways, expressways, bridges, and rural road networks as part of its broader infrastructure development strategy. Officials stated that enhanced connectivity is expected to improve mobility, attract investment, and contribute to the state’s economic progress.

The directions issued during the meeting reflect the government’s focus on expanding modern infrastructure while ensuring that development projects are implemented in a transparent, efficient, and people-centric manner.

Bhagwant Mann Announces ₹18 Crore Development Package for Phagwara During Public Outreach Event

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Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed gratitude to thousands of residents, including youth and women, who attended a public interaction programme in Phagwara despite the intense summer heat. He described the large gathering as a reflection of public support and confidence in the government’s policies and development agenda.

Bhagwant Mann Announces ₹18 Crore Development Package

Addressing the gathering, Mann announced an ₹18 crore development package for the comprehensive development of Phagwara. The package is expected to support infrastructure improvements and public welfare initiatives aimed at enhancing civic amenities and local development in the city.

Phagwara During Public Outreach Event

The Chief Minister highlighted several welfare measures undertaken by the state government, stating that a large number of households in Punjab are benefiting from zero electricity bills and other citizen-focused schemes. He also noted that millions of families have received access to free medical treatment through government healthcare initiatives.

Mann said that transparency, accountability, and public service remain key priorities of his administration. He emphasized that the government is working to improve the quality of life for citizens through investments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and essential services.

The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to transforming Punjab through development-oriented policies and welfare programmes. He stated that efforts are continuing to strengthen public services and create new opportunities for the people of the state.

Concluding his address, Mann affirmed that the government remains dedicated to building a prosperous and vibrant Punjab, with a focus on inclusive growth and improving the well-being of citizens across urban and rural areas.

CM Yogi Adityanath to Unveil Development Projects and Participate in Religious Events in Ayodhya

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Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has highlighted a series of cultural, religious, and development-related programmes scheduled in Ayodhya, stating that the holy city will witness the convergence of faith, heritage, spiritual traditions, and modern development.

CM Yogi Adityanath to Unveil Development Projects and Participate

During his visit, the Chief Minister will unveil a statue of the renowned freedom fighter and warrior Veerangana Jhalkari Bai, paying tribute to her contribution to India’s history and her role as a symbol of courage and social empowerment. The event is aimed at commemorating her legacy and inspiring future generations.

The visit will also feature the inauguration and foundation laying of several development

Yogi Adityanath is also set to participate in the Bhagwan Munisuvratanath Panch Kalyanak Pratishtha Mahotsav, an important religious event for the Jain community. In addition, he will attend celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Mahant Nritya Gopal Das Ji Maharaj and interact with members of the saint community present on the occasion.

The visit will also feature the inauguration and foundation laying of several development projects, including the Ramayana Wax Museum. Officials believe the museum will further strengthen Ayodhya’s position as a major cultural and religious destination while offering visitors an engaging depiction of the Ramayana.

According to the Chief Minister, the programmes reflect the state’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while simultaneously advancing infrastructure and tourism development. He emphasized that Ayodhya is emerging as a global centre of faith and culture, supported by extensive development initiatives.

The combination of religious events and development projects is expected to further enhance Ayodhya’s spiritual significance, tourism potential, and economic growth, reinforcing the vision of balancing heritage conservation with modern progress.

Bhqgwant Mann Conducts 498 Raids Under Anti-Gangster Campaign, Total Arrests Reach 37,757

Bhagwant Mann continued its intensive crackdown on organized crime under the ongoing “Gangstran Te Vaar” campaign, carrying out coordinated operations across the state in collaboration with the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab. The latest action focused on identified and mapped locations linked to gangster networks and their associates.

Bhqgwant Mann Conducts 498 Raids Under Anti-Gangster Campaign

According to Punjab Police, a total of 498 raids were conducted during the statewide operation. The enforcement drive resulted in the arrest of 250 individuals, while three proclaimed offenders who had been evading law enforcement were also apprehended.

Total Arrests Reach 37,757

During the raids, police recovered one weapon and gathered information related to ongoing investigations into criminal activities and organized crime networks. Officials stated that intelligence-led operations remain a key component of the state’s strategy to dismantle gangster syndicates and prevent criminal activities.

Punjab Police noted that since the launch of the “Gangstran Te Vaar” initiative, total arrests have reached 37,757, reflecting the scale of the campaign against organized crime across the state. The department emphasized that regular raids, surveillance, and coordinated enforcement efforts are being undertaken to strengthen public safety and maintain law and order.

Authorities have also appealed to citizens to support anti-crime efforts by sharing information about criminal activities through the Anti-Gangster Helpline. Anonymous reporting mechanisms have been put in place to encourage public participation in maintaining community security.

Punjab Police reiterated its commitment to continuing the campaign and taking decisive action against gangster networks as part of broader efforts to ensure a safer environment for the people of Punjab.

Financial Trouble For Mamata Banerjee Mounts! TMC Faces Fresh Row as Arup Biswas’ Letter Sparks Bank Account Controversy

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Mamata Banerjee: The crisis engulfing Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress deepened sharply this week as a stunning new front opened — this time not in the assembly or Parliament, but directly at the bank counter.

Treasurer Writes To HDFC Bank — Freeze the Accounts

TMC treasurer Arup Biswas has sought an immediate freeze on the operation of party bank accounts, citing an ongoing dispute over the authority and control of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), in a letter addressed to the Manager of HDFC Bank in Kolkata.

The letter, dated June 12, 2026, saw Biswas — in his capacity as treasurer of the TMC — request the bank to maintain the status quo and not permit any debit transactions or changes in operational mandates until the dispute is resolved by a competent authority.

Rs 676 Crore In The Balance

The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC is continuing to implode. After the rebellion by scores of MLAs and MPs, the party now faces another crisis — this time over money, with rival groups claiming to be the legitimate representatives and office-bearers of the AITC, resulting in uncertainty over who controls the accounts. Reports peg the total funds at stake at approximately Rs 676 crore in party assets.

The Rebellion That Set It All Off

Mamata Banerjee: The letter was written against the backdrop of a rebellion within TMC that has emerged as one of the most significant political developments in West Bengal after the 2026 assembly elections. A group of 58 dissident TMC MLAs, led by Ritabrata Banerjee, broke away from the party leadership and secured recognition from the Speaker as the dominant legislature group.

The split extended to Parliament as well, where 20 rebel TMC MPs — including Sudip Bandyopadhyay and Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar — moved away from the party’s central leadership and sought a merger with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), claiming the support of more than two-thirds of TMC‘s Lok Sabha strength.

Party MPs Choose To Bypass Uddhav Thackeray’s Diktat, Can Shiv Sena UBT Take Action? Check

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Uddhav Thackeray: Maharashtra’s political landscape was rocked Thursday as a carefully orchestrated rebellion tore through the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), with two-thirds of its Lok Sabha MPs openly defying a party whip — the starkest sign yet that the Thackeray camp’s parliamentary strength is crumbling from within.

Six MPs Go AWOL — ‘Operation Tiger’ Lands Its Blow

In a major political upheaval, the Shiv Sena (UBT) suffered a crippling blow as six of its nine Lok Sabha members rebelled to bypass a crucial party whip on Thursday, marking the definitive success of Eknath Shinde faction’s meticulously executed plan, code-named “Operation Tiger”.

The fracture became evident during a Parliamentary Party meeting convened by the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction at Parliament House. Despite a strict whip, only three Lok Sabha MPs attended — Arvind Sawant (Mumbai South), Anil Desai (Mumbai South-Central), and Rajabhau Waje (Nashik).

Six MPs staged a complete boycott: Omraje Nimbalkar (Dharashiv), Sanjay Jadhav (Parbhani), Sanjay Deshmukh (Yavatmal-Washim), Nagesh Ashtikar (Hingoli), Bhausaheb Wakchaure (Shirdi), and Sanjay Dina Patil (Mumbai North-East).

Why Are The Rebels Walking Out?

The dissenting lawmakers passed an internal resolution citing ideological differences — specifically that the Thackeray leadership has drifted from the original Hindutva ideology established by founder Balasaheb Thackeray. The resolution also flagged growing anxiety that a potential full-scale merger of Shiv Sena UBT into the Congress party could erase the regional party’s distinct identity.

Sanjay Raut Lays Out Legal Roadmap

Uddhav Thackeray: Shiv Sena UBT is not going down without a fight. Sanjay Raut outlined a clear legal plan — the party will first exhaust all internal constitutional and legislative processes within the Lok Sabha. If Speaker Om Birla acts in accordance with Supreme Court guidelines, the six MPs will inevitably face disqualification. If the legislative process fails, Raut said the party is prepared to challenge the matter directly before the Supreme Court.

UP Politics Heats Up After Sanjay Nishad Reiterates Split In SP, Congress, Can Opposition Keep Its Flock Together ?

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UP Politics: The political temperature in Uttar Pradesh surged sharply on Wednesday after a senior NDA minister renewed claims of a brewing exodus within the opposition, directly targeting the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress as the countdown to the 2027 Assembly elections gathers pace.

‘No Less Than Two Dozen MPs In Touch With Us’

UP Minister Sanjay Nishad, leader of the Nishad Party and a key ally of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, claimed that several opposition leaders from the SP and Congress are in contact with the ruling alliance to switch sides. When pressed for specifics, Nishad provided a rough estimate, stating there are “no less than two dozen” such MPs as of today.

Nishad framed the defection buzz not as political opportunism but as an inevitability born of electoral failure. “People came to form a government, but they couldn’t. Now, if they stay outside of power, the public questions them,” he said, adding that most MPs and MLAs are asking the NDA to facilitate a conversation with central leadership.

Rajbhar Piles On — ‘Only Family Loyalists Remain In SP’

NDA ally Om Prakash Rajbhar also joined the offensive, claiming that apart from four or five family members of the Yadav clan — including Akhilesh, Dimple, and sons of Ram Gopal and Shivpal — everyone else in the SP is ready to abandon the party. Rajbhar further alleged that Akhilesh Yadav’s recent public warning about MLAs and MLCs being poached was an admission that his grip on the party is weakening.

SP Fires Back — ‘BJP Only Knows How To Split Parties’

UP Politics: The opposition refused to take the claims lying down. SP’s Sanatan Pandey dismissed the defection rumours outright, calling the BJP “opportunistic” and accusing it of wanting power only by splitting parties. SP leader Shivpal Yadav similarly termed the claims “baseless,” insisting the party’s ranks remain united.

Tehran Dictates US Iran Peace Deal! Did Donald Trump Bite Dust In An Unwanted War?

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US Iran Peace Deal: There seems to be an incredible change in the nature of the US-Iran dispute following the move towards reaching peace after months of military confrontation. While the US president has hailed the pact as his greatest win ever, some reports have come out to suggest that Iran has succeeded in winning most of their demands in the negotiations.

Did Iran set the terms?

From some of the reports revolving around the recent pact that is being signed, it is evident that Iran has succeeded in safeguarding some of its most significant interests. The agreement gives Iran the liberty to engage in limited uranium enrichment under international supervision. Sanctions on Iran are likely to end alongside a return of traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have repeatedly claimed that their country emerged from the conflict in a stronger position and that the final framework reflects Tehran’s negotiating power. 

Did Donald Trump Bite the Dust in an Unwanted War?

The question refers to whether Donald Trump suffered a political or strategic setback in a conflict that he may not have wanted to be involved in. While some critics argue that the outcome favored Iran and forced the U.S. into compromises, Trump’s supporters maintain that the agreement helped prevent a larger war and reduced regional tensions. The debate continues over whether the deal represents a victory or a setback for the former president.

Analyzing Trump’s Risk

US Iran Peace Deal: Donald Trump initially took a very firm position on Iran and insisted on very harsh restrictions on its nuclear program. However, the outcome of the talks seems to be less restrictive than the expectations of the US administration. Some commentators claim that the White House had to come to an agreement for fear of growing oil prices, economic uncertainty, and a long-lasting regional conflict.

Cocktail 2 Movie Review: Bold Love Story Packed With Chemistry, Heartbreak and Unexpected Emotional Twists

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Cocktail 2 Movie Review: Cocktail 2 finally comes after many years of waiting with a different cast, new storyline about the relationships, and emotional baggage. Featuring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead roles, this movie aims to bring back the magic of the old film in terms of the new generation of love, friendship, and emotions. 

A Love Triangle That Keeps Emotions Running High

The main focus of the movie Cocktail 2 lies in a love story among three people who get connected by their friendship and romantic feelings. It all starts with a bright and cheerful romance, but slowly moves towards the plot of difficult decisions, jealousy, and emotions.

Shahid, Kriti, and Rashmika Showcase Chemistry on Screen

One of the best things about this movie is the chemistry that exists between the leading actors. Shahid Kapoor has charisma and intensity, and Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna bring vibrancy and sensitivity to their characters. The audience could tell even before the release of the movie how well this combination would turn out.

Stylish Package with Emotional Undercurrents

Homi Adajania directs a film that uses glamour, colorful songs, and intense emotions to craft an entertaining romantic drama. While the movie embraces the style that made the original movie a success, it also aims at conveying more serious aspects such as commitment, friendship, personal development, and sorrow.

Early Audience Reactions

Initial social media reactions have been largely positive, with many viewers describing Cocktail 2 as a refreshing romantic entertainer. Several early viewers have particularly praised Kriti Sanon’s performance and the film’s emotional storytelling. 

Day 1 Box Office Collection 

On day 1, Cocktail 2 is screening across 2074 shows and has earned an estimated Rs. 0.77 crore net collection so far. The film’s total India gross stands at Rs. 0.91 crore.

Haryana FDA Clarifies Cough Syrups Are Not All Prescription-Only Medicines

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Amid confusion over recent changes in drug regulations, Haryana’s Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has clarified that not all cough syrups have automatically become prescription-only medicines. The clarification comes after widespread reports suggested that every cough syrup would require a doctor’s prescription for purchase.

Haryana FDA Clarifies Cough Syrups Are Not All Prescription-Only Medicines

According to health authorities, the recent amendment by the Union Ministry of Health primarily removes certain exemptions that previously allowed syrup-based medicines to be sold under relaxed regulations in specific areas. The move is aimed at strengthening oversight of syrup formulations and ensuring that their sale takes place through properly licensed channels.

The FDA explained that the amendment should not be interpreted to mean that every cough syrup is now classified as a prescription drug. Instead, the regulatory status of a medicine will continue to depend on its category and composition under existing drug laws. The clarification was issued to prevent misinformation and unnecessary concern among consumers and retailers.

Centre’s decision to tighten regulations on syrup-based medicines

The Centre’s decision to tighten regulations on syrup-based medicines followed concerns related to drug quality, safety, and misuse. Authorities have stated that stronger monitoring and compliance measures are intended to improve public health protection and ensure safer distribution of medicines.

Health officials have advised consumers to purchase medicines from licensed pharmacies and follow medical advice regarding the use of cough and cold medications. Pharmacists and retailers have also been urged to comply with the updated regulatory framework and seek clarification from authorities whenever required.

The Haryana FDA’s statement seeks to reassure the public that while oversight of syrup-based medicines is being strengthened, reports claiming that all cough syrups can only be purchased with a prescription are not entirely accurate and should be understood in the context of the revised rules.

Akalis Should Stop Living In Fool’s Paradise; Instead Of Returning To Power, Their Turn To Go To Jail Has Come: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

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Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday launched a blistering attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Congress, asserting that the era of political parties taking turns to rule Punjab is over and that those responsible for betraying the state’s trust will be held accountable. During a massive gathering during a Lok Milni in Phagwara, the Chief Minister said that while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)’s Jhaadu is cleaning Punjab’s political system, the Akalis and Congress, two sides of the same coin, are struggling for political survival after decades of pursuing vested interests.

Pointing out that the Akali leadership is misleading people and questioning their credibility, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that those who lied before Sri Akal Takht Sahib cannot be loyal to anyone. He further remarked that the Congress is on its death bed due to its internal infighting, while Punjab is witnessing unprecedented progress in education, healthcare, power and welfare under the people-centric governance of the AAP Government.

Addressing a Lok Milni in Phagwara, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Gone are the days when these parties used to play musical chairs and wait for their turn of power. Actually, these parties safeguarded each other’s interests during their days in power due to which their misdeeds were never exposed. However, now the people have elected the Aam Aadmi Party and the symbol of this party, the jhaadu, is cleansing the political system of the state. The day is not far when the Akalis will be behind bars for their sins.”

The Chief Minister said, “Akalis and Congress are two sides of the same coin. They are not concerned about the people but are concerned only about their vested interests. They themselves executed sacrilege incidents at many places and lied before Sri Akal Takht Sahib and later agreed too. They got police officers killed during terrorism and even gave promotions to guilty police officers. They bestowed themselves with the title of Fakr-e-Qaum whereas they had facilitated the safe exit of the culprits of the 1978 incident.”

Lashing out at the Akali leadership, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Sukhbir Badal is not aware about the ground realities because throughout his life he has lived in a secured environment with luxuries and opulence. Sukhbir Singh Badal is a convent educated political leader of Punjab who is not aware of the basic topography of the state but wants to attain political power in Punjab. Leaving everything aside, the former Deputy Chief Minister cannot even differentiate the basic crops of the state because he has scant knowledge about the basic issues.”

Referring to the issue of sacrilege, the Chief Minister stated, “Whenever incidents of sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji took place, the psyche of millions of people was deeply hurt. The Almighty has blessed me with the wisdom and strength to bring this Bill after detailed consultation with legal experts. The state government has drafted this Bill carefully so that no future amendments or loopholes would weaken it.”

The Chief Minister further noted, “This Bill will act as a deterrent for anti-social elements to indulge in any such sin in future and no one will ever be able to indulge in this heinous crime. The Akalis were never sincere about making such a law when they were in power. The truth is that their intentions were flawed. The Akalis allowed sacrilege incidents to take place for their political gains. They even admitted their mistakes before Sri Akal Takht Sahib but later denied them publicly. Those who can lie before the Takht can never be loyal to anyone. People must remain cautious of such individuals who are not loyal to anyone and only want political power to plunder the state.”

The Chief Minister said, “The Akalis misused religion for their vested interests. The Jathedars are appointed from the pockets of the Akalis due to which they are indulging in politics. These people have no agenda and their sole aim is to defame me by hook or by crook. People are aware of the dubious character of these leaders and they will never get swayed by their theatrics.”

Taking a swipe at the Congress party, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Congress party is on its death bed and will be finished very soon because it has no vision for the people and the state. Their only aim is to plunder the wealth of Punjab by assuming power but their dreams will never be fulfilled. The Congress party is a divided house that will collapse due to its infighting. It is a pity that the top Congress leaders who come to unite these leaders squabbling for power are not even aware how to pronounce their names.”

Emphasising the role of governance in shaping the future of Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The work of any government is to provide wings to children so that they can script a new success story in life. Every file signed by me is aimed at the benefit of the common man and the state. More than 67,000 government jobs have been provided to youth without corruption or recommendation. Every decision of the state government is aimed at the progress of the state and prosperity of its people.”

Highlighting the transformation in the education sector, the Chief Minister stated, “Schools of Eminence have been set up across the state to impart quality education to students. These schools have been equipped with smart classrooms, fully equipped laboratories and playgrounds for scientific learning. To upscale the expertise of teachers, a special programme has been embarked upon under which teachers and principals are being sent abroad for training to make sure that they are well versed with modern teaching practices and can prepare students for future competitions in the international arena. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that Punjab has ranked first in the National Achievement Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing even Kerala.”

The Chief Minister further said, “Students are being offered specialised coaching for competitive examinations such as Armed Forces Preparation, NEET, JEE, CLAT and NIFT. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that students from Schools of Eminence and other government schools have qualified for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced and NEET examinations. Punjab has become the first state to provide free healthcare to all citizens and around 1,000 Aam Aadmi Clinics are providing free treatment daily.”

Referring to the power sector reforms undertaken by his Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since the AAP government assumed charge in 2022, around 90% households of the state are receiving free electricity. For the first time in the history of Punjab, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power is being supplied to farm tube wells during the paddy season and that too during the daytime. The AAP Government has laid 14,000 kilometres of pipelines and watercourses across the state to facilitate farmers in every nook and corner of Punjab.”

The Chief Minister said, “As much as 21,000 cusecs of water has been released through these pipelines and watercourses to benefit farmers by catering to their irrigation needs. This water released by the state government is equal to the water supplied by two Bhakra canals. Farmers across Punjab will be immensely benefited by this initiative. Recharge points have been created in canals and rivers so that groundwater levels can improve, and water levels have already increased by two to four metres in several areas.”

The Chief Minister said that the AAP Government remains committed to ensuring that the benefits of development reach every village, every farmer and every household of the state.

Highlighting the people-centric governance model of the AAP Government, the Chief Minister stated, “The taxpayers’ money is being judiciously spent on the welfare of the people and it is coming back to them through development, schools, hospitals and roads. The state government is now working for the people and has closed toll plazas, thereby saving ₹70 lakh of the people’s money every day. The AAP Government is making strenuous efforts for the well-being of every section of society and no stone is being left unturned for this noble cause.”

Referring to the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The AAP government has started the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna under which women above 18 years of age from all other categories will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from the Scheduled Caste category will receive ₹1,500 per month as financial assistance. For ordinary people, especially the poor, ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 is a significant amount. This amount is a mark of respect for mothers and daughters and the smile on women’s faces due to this scheme gives me great satisfaction.”

Highlighting the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the Chief Minister stated, “In order to provide comprehensive healthcare to people, the AAP Government has launched the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the first-of-its-kind scheme in the country that provides cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident family in Punjab. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage, which has significantly eased the financial burden on the public while ensuring quality health services.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “This historic move is aimed at providing universal healthcare to all families of the state. People have availed free treatment worth more than ₹650 crore under the scheme so far.”

The Chief Minister stated, “Today Punjab is making rapid strides in every field because the state government has taken every step for the comprehensive development of Punjab. The AAP Government has taken path-breaking initiatives in health, education, power and other sectors. Work on the construction of more than 49,000 kilometres of rural roads is going on in full swing and will be accomplished soon.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has closed 19 toll plazas in Punjab, which is saving ₹64 lakh daily from the pockets of common people in toll fees. The AAP Government has hitherto fulfilled every promise made to the people of the state and Punjab is the first state to do so. The sole agenda of the state government is to ensure the progress of the state and the prosperity of its people.”

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister announced a grant of more than ₹18 crore for the development of the Phagwara Assembly segment.

The Chief Minister said, “No stone will be left unturned for the progress of the constituency.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also directed the Deputy Commissioner to ensure that the ADC Phagwara is given more powers so that people of the segment do not have to travel to Kapurthala for petty works.

Highlighting the objective behind the Lok Milni programme, the Chief Minister said, “Lok Milnis are not associated with politics. The sole aim of the state government is to usher in development and prosperity. Lok Milnis act as a pivotal bridge between the government and the masses. The AAP government is working tirelessly for the well-being of the people and several key initiatives have already been taken in the state.”

Lok Sabha MP Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal and several other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.