Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab’s political spotlight will shift to Moga on Monday as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) goes ahead with its much-publicised rally, though Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will be missing from the stage due to health reasons.
Mann was admitted to a private hospital in Mohali after experiencing discomfort linked to high blood pressure. According to doctors, he has undergone necessary medical examinations and remains stable. He is currently under observation and receiving supportive care.
Kejriwal to Address Gathering
In the Chief Minister’s absence, AAP’s national convenor Arvind Kejriwal will headline the event at Killi Chahla village. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema is also set to play a prominent role in addressing party workers and supporters.
Party sources indicate that preparations for the rally have been underway for weeks, with legislators and halqa incharges reaching out to grassroots workers and members of the newly formed Village Defence Committees. Organisers are expecting tens of thousands of attendees, projecting the event as a show of strength.
Focus on Anti-Drug Campaign
The rally is expected to spotlight the state government’s anti-narcotics drive, branded as a “War Against Drugs.” Senior leaders are likely to outline achievements and future measures aimed at tackling drug abuse and trafficking across Punjab.
Following the public programme, party representatives will convene for an internal meeting in Moga. Manish Sisodia, who oversees Punjab affairs for the party, is scheduled to interact with MLAs and constituency heads to discuss organisational matters and political strategy.
Health Scare Disrupts Schedule
Mann’s hospitalisation came while he was attending Shivratri functions in Sangrur with Kejriwal. As his condition worsened, he was flown to Chandigarh, forcing the cancellation of his remaining engagements, including a planned visit to Fazilka.
The Chief Minister’s absence comes at a crucial juncture for the party, with discussions reportedly underway regarding a possible Cabinet reshuffle and the induction of Deputy Chief Ministers. Despite this, AAP leaders have asserted that governance and party activities will continue without interruption.
