In a sharp critique of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, the wife of former Punjab Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu, publicly called out Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday over the deteriorating civic conditions around the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
A Strongly Worded Appeal on Social Media
Taking to the social media platform X, Navjot Kaur Sidhu directly addressed the Chief Minister in a post that highlighted what she described as a grim "ground zero" reality. She asserted that the actual situation on the ground starkly contradicts the state government's narrative of proactive concern and effective governance. Emphasizing the sacred status of Harmandir Sahib, the holiest shrine in Sikhism, she stated it was her "moral responsibility" to bring these pressing issues to light.
Allegations of Neglect and Encroachment
In her detailed post, Sidhu flagged several critical problems plaguing the vicinity of the iconic shrine. She pointed to unchecked encroachments and a lack of round-the-clock cleanliness drives, which compromise the sanctity and hygiene of the area. Furthermore, she raised serious concerns about the absence of adequate police protection, leaving visitors vulnerable.
One of the most serious allegations she made was that the surroundings have been increasingly taken over by drug addicts. According to her, these individuals not only create "ugly encampments" but also loot pilgrims and tourists, thereby severely tarnishing the dignity of the entire zone.
An Urgent Call for Corrective Action
Navjot Kaur Sidhu concluded her message with a direct appeal to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. She urged him to immediately instruct the local bodies department to step in and take swift corrective measures. Her intervention underscores a growing sentiment among locals and devotees about the need for better civic management and security around one of India's most revered spiritual sites.
The public rebuke from a prominent political figure's family member puts the spotlight squarely on the Punjab government's administrative efficacy in maintaining key heritage and religious centres. The state's response to this call for action is now keenly awaited.
