SAD President Sukhbir Badal Slams AAP Government Over Unfulfilled Farmer Promises
In a scathing critique of the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has demanded immediate action to address the plight of farmers reeling from recent agricultural damages. Speaking at a large-scale rally in Patiala as part of the party's 'Punjab Bachao' campaign, Badal called on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to release compensation at the rate of Rs 50,000 per acre for wheat crops devastated by a hail storm in the Malwa region.
Unkept Election Promises and Farmer Distress
Emphasizing the severe distress among the farming community, Sukhbir Badal highlighted that the AAP government has failed to deliver on its 2022 election manifesto commitments. "Farmers are in deep distress," he stated, "I am receiving numerous calls from across Punjab where farmers report not receiving a single rupee for paddy crop losses from last year's devastating floods. Now, they are pleading for compensation for widespread damage to standing wheat crops, particularly in districts like Bathinda, Mansa, Fazilka, and Sri Muktsar Sahib."
Accompanied by halka in-charge Makhan Singh Lalka, the Akali Dal leader asserted that the AAP administration has provided nothing substantial to farmers over the past four years. "If the government cannot fulfill all promises, it should at least honor one by disbursing this crucial compensation," he insisted.
Advocacy for Arhtiya Community and Criticism of Police Action
Turning to the challenges faced by arhtiyas, or commission agents, Sukhbir Badal underscored their integral role in Punjab's food grain procurement system. He demanded the restoration of a 2.5% commission on the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat and paddy to cover rising operational costs in mandis. "I strongly condemn Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for failing to advocate forcefully with the central government on this issue. Once SAD returns to power, we will prioritize restoring this commission to ensure justice for the arhtiya community," he pledged.
Badal also criticized the CM for authorizing a lathi-charge on farmers who attempted to meet him in Moga. "It is evident that the CM fears facing farmers' questions," he alleged, "They sought answers on why AAP leaders allegedly stole farmers' trolleys at Shambhu and Khanauri borders and why no action has been taken, alongside queries about denied flood compensation." He accused Mann of cowardice for opting for police force instead of dialogue.
Allegations of Government Misuse and Future Vision
Further escalating his attack, Sukhbir Badal alleged that the AAP government is misusing State Roadways buses to transport people to political rallies at public expense, labeling it a "significant scam" with vendors from Delhi benefiting. He also highlighted instances of excessive security during Mann's visits, such as lockdowns in Satoj village and demands for licensed weapon deposits in nearby areas.
Responding to queries about internal AAP dynamics, Badal predicted more defections, stating, "Everyone recognizes AAP as a sinking ship. Its leaders have done little beyond deceiving the public." He referenced Raghav Chadha's anticipated departure as a sign of broader discontent.
SAD's Comprehensive Development Blueprint for Punjab
Outlining an ambitious vision for Punjab's future, Sukhbir Badal announced several key initiatives if SAD regains power:
- Establishment of a World Skill University to train one lakh youth annually, with district-level centers.
- Free education up to graduation for Scheduled Caste, Backward Classes, and economically disadvantaged students.
- Interest-free loans of Rs 10 lakh for youth, revival of an expanded Aata Dal scheme, increased old-age pension to Rs 3,100 monthly, and Shagun allowance raised to Rs 1 lakh.
- Reservation of government jobs exclusively for Punjabis and a 75% subsidy for dairy and livestock ventures.
These proposals aim to address unemployment, skill development, and social welfare, positioning SAD as a proactive alternative to the current administration.
