Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday called for a 'double-engine government' in Punjab, asserting that the state needs liberation from false promises, mounting debt, corruption, drug abuse, and remote-control politics. Addressing a BJP workers' meeting in Muktsar, Saini claimed that only a BJP government could ensure development on par with neighbouring Haryana.
Saini invokes Sikh legacy and questions Punjab's governance
Wearing a saffron turban and robe, Saini began by paying tribute to the 40 'Muktas' and Mai Bhago, recalling their sacrifice and faith in Guru Gobind Singh. He highlighted central initiatives for the Sikh community and questioned the current state of affairs in Punjab. In an indirect attack on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, embroiled in a controversy over a purported viral video, Saini said, 'Some people are trying to cover up their shortcomings by manipulating reports. The Sikh Gurus bestowed countless blessings upon us. We cannot imagine disrespecting their contribution. Governments come and go, but history remains. What history has Punjab witnessed under these governments? I ask the people to reflect on this.'
Promises of welfare and development
Describing Punjab and Haryana as states bound by shared heritage, language, and culture, Saini expressed concern over Punjab's condition and criticised successive Congress and AAP governments for failing farmers, youth, and women. He noted that Haryana was the first state to procure all crops at Minimum Support Price and cited schemes like 'Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana', Rs 2,100 monthly assistance for women, subsidised LPG cylinders, and social security pensions. Promising similar measures in Punjab if BJP forms the government, Saini alleged the present dispensation focuses on 'talks and jokes rather than governance'. He also raised concerns over unemployment, law and order, and drug abuse among youth.
The meeting was organised by former Panchkula Municipal Council president Manveer Kaur Gill and the party's Muktsar district unit. Former MP Jagmeet Singh Brar also addressed the gathering.
