SAD President Sukhbir Badal Calls for CBI Investigation into AAP Ministers' Corruption
In a significant political development, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has leveled serious allegations of corruption against several ministers of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab. Addressing a 'Punjab Bachao' rally in Sri Hargobindpur, Gurdaspur, on Friday, Badal demanded an immediate Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe to expose what he described as widespread scams over the past four years.
Allegations of Systemic Corruption
Badal asserted that the recent case involving former transport minister Laljit Bhullar is not an isolated incident. He claimed that other AAP leaders are embroiled in similar corrupt practices, amassing ill-gotten wealth through dubious means. "Only an independent CBI probe can uncover these alleged scams and hold the guilty accountable," Badal emphasized during his speech, which was attended by constituency halka in-charge Rajanbir Singh and other senior SAD leaders.
The SAD chief specifically called for a CBI inquiry into the death of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, the district manager with the Punjab Warehousing Corporation (PWC). He also demanded the arrest of other accused individuals, including the father and aide of former minister Laljit Bhullar. Badal urged that this investigation be initiated without delay, citing assurances given by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament.
Criticism of AAP's Wheat Procurement Preparedness
Shifting focus to agricultural issues, Badal criticized the AAP government for its alleged failure to make adequate arrangements for the forthcoming wheat procurement season, scheduled to begin on April 1. "The AAP government is completely clueless about wheat procurement," he stated, highlighting that the administration has admitted to a shortage of 5 crore jute bags and 22 lakh metric tonnes of storage capacity needed for the crop.
Badal questioned Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's priorities, asking, "What has he been doing for the last two months, apart from indulging in cheap gimmicks and flying around in planes at the service of Arvind Kejriwal?" This remark underscores the ongoing political tensions between SAD and AAP in Punjab.
Vision for Punjab's Development
Reiterating his party's commitment to Punjab's progress, Badal outlined a comprehensive development agenda. He announced plans to establish a medical and veterinary college in each district of the state, aiming to enhance healthcare and educational infrastructure. Additionally, Badal proposed the creation of a World Skill University that would skill one lakh youth annually, with centers in every district to promote vocational training.
In a bid to support youth and farmers, Badal promised several welfare measures:
- Offering Rs 10 lakh interest-free loans to young entrepreneurs.
- Restarting and expanding the Aata Dal scheme to benefit agricultural communities.
- Raising the old age pension to Rs 3,100 per month.
- Increasing the Shagun allowance to Rs 1 lakh for marriage-related expenses.
- Providing a 75% subsidy for establishing dairy and other livestock ventures to boost rural economy.
Senior Leaders Address the Gathering
The rally saw participation from prominent SAD figures, including senior leaders Bikram Singh Majithia, Sucha Singh Langah, Lakhbir Singh Lodhinangal, and Capt Balbir Singh Bath. Their presence reinforced the party's unified stance against the AAP government and its policies.
This event marks a crucial moment in Punjab's political landscape, as SAD intensifies its efforts to challenge the ruling AAP ahead of key electoral battles. The allegations of corruption and calls for a CBI probe are likely to fuel further debates and investigations in the coming weeks.
