AAP Calls for Release of Punjab's Withheld Funds, Accuses Centre of Discrimination
In a strong statement from Patiala, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Saturday urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure the release of funds withheld from Punjab by the central government. The party emphasized that the Centre must cease what it termed as "discrimination" against the state, highlighting ongoing tensions over financial allocations and state rights.
Health Scheme Progress Amid Financial Disputes
Speaking during a three-day camp at Greenfield Sant Enclave in Patiala for the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, AAP Punjab general secretary and state media in-charge Baltej Pannu detailed the state's efforts under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. He announced that the Punjab government plans to issue health scheme cards to 65 lakh families, with approximately 15 lakh people already having received these cards. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare access across the state.
Criticism of Central Government's Actions
Pannu criticized the central government, stating that if Amit Shah visits Punjab for rallies, he should also bring along the withheld funds. These include pending amounts under the Rural Development Fund and other schemes. Accusing the Centre of step-motherly treatment, Pannu asserted that Punjab faces consistent discrimination, particularly on issues like its rights over Chandigarh and matters related to Panjab University, which he said keep the state entangled in disputes.
He appealed to the people of Punjab to raise these concerns with Amit Shah, underscoring the urgency of the financial release. Pannu also recalled that during recent floods, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted an aerial survey and announced Rs 1,600 crore as compensation, but this amount has not been disbursed to the state, further exacerbating the situation.
Political Attacks on Opposition Parties
Turning to opposition figures, Pannu launched sharp critiques. He claimed that Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira "has lost his mental balance," reflecting the heated political climate. Targeting the Shiromani Akali Dal, he alleged that during their tenure, drugs and gangsterism reached alarming levels in Punjab, causing significant damage. "Today, the government is removing the thorns sown by the Akali Dal and making efforts to restore Punjab to its vibrant glory as ‘Rangla Punjab'," he added, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat these issues.
Achievements and Future Prospects
On a positive note, Pannu highlighted the Mann government's achievements, particularly the announcement of investment commitments worth Rs 10,000 crore by leading industrialists on the first day of the Punjab Progressive Investors' Summit-2026 in Mohali. He described this as a major milestone that is expected to boost business activity and economic growth in the state, showcasing progress despite financial challenges.
Overall, the AAP's demands underscore a broader narrative of state-centre relations, with Punjab seeking equitable treatment and timely fund releases to support its development initiatives.
