Chandigarh (National Times): Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has once again raised strong objections to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s land pooling policy, warning that it poses a serious threat to Punjab’s agricultural foundation and could cripple the state’s economy.
Speaking informally with journalists after a meeting with party constituency coordinators at the Punjab Congress headquarters, Warring alleged that the policy is purely a money-making venture, with little regard for the long-term economic and social impact on the state.
“Acquiring 24,000 acres of fertile agricultural land will shake the very backbone of Punjab’s economy,” Warring cautioned. “Agriculture is the foundation on which Punjab’s economy, industry, and trade are built. Undermine it, and the whole system collapses.”
He criticized the government for not consulting stakeholders and questioned the need for such a policy when there is already no significant demand for additional residential or industrial plots. “There are thousands of unsold plots in private colonies. Apartments are lying vacant. So, why this push to create more when there’s no taker?” he asked.
On internal matters, Warring defended the re-induction of leaders from other parties into the Congress, saying there was no internal rift on the issue. “Every political party looks to grow. The more people join, the stronger we become,” he said, brushing aside reports of discord.
Regarding the Ludhiana West by-election, Warring exuded confidence. “Congress is leading the race and we are certain of a record-breaking win,” he declared.
Responding sharply to comments from BJP leaders Sunil Jakhar and Ravneet Singh Bittu, Warring said, “These two were enough to sink the Congress ship before, and now they will do the same to the BJP.”
In a scathing remark on the deteriorating drug situation in Punjab, Warring referred to the village of Bhai Bhaktaur, where locals reportedly put the entire village “up for sale” in protest against unchecked drug trafficking. “This is the ultimate humiliation for the Punjab government. Pedlars are operating freely, and even beating up ex-servicemen who oppose them. It’s a national shame,” he said.
He emphasized that Bhai Bhaktaur is not an isolated case, but a grim reflection of the ground reality in Punjab. “The government’s so-called ‘Yudh’ against drugs has failed miserably,” he added.
