Ludhiana (National Times): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann addressed a vibrant gathering in Ludhiana West on Sunday, expressing profound gratitude to the residents for their unwavering support in the recent by-elections, which propelled the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to a decisive victory. The event underscored AAP’s growing influence in Punjab and its ambitious national aspirations under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal.
In an emotionally charged speech, Mann said, “People have been showering so much love on us that even the words ‘Thank You’ cannot do justice to it.” He emphasized the public’s satisfaction with the AAP government, noting, “People are happy because they are finally getting what they wanted from the government.” Mann attributed the party’s success to Kejriwal’s leadership, highlighting AAP’s recent electoral triumph in Gujarat as “just the beginning” of its nationwide ascent.
Reflecting on AAP’s remarkable journey, Mann contrasted its 10-year existence with the decades-long dominance of parties like Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal. “These parties, established long ago, are now seeing a decline in their influence. They lack new members and are forced to poach leaders from other parties,” he remarked, drawing enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
A key highlight of Mann’s speech was Punjab’s transformative progress in education. He cited a nationwide survey conducted every four years among 2,500 students in classes 3, 5, and 9, revealing that Punjab had soared from 29th position in 2017 to the top spot in 2025. Mann extended heartfelt congratulations to teachers, principals, and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, whose education model significantly contributed to this achievement. “We love to be on top—whether it’s in sacrifice, providing food, or fighting for independence,” he declared, invoking Punjab’s storied legacy.
Mann also introduced AAP Punjab President Aman Arora, drawing a poignant historical parallel. He noted that Arora hails from the same region as Shaheed Sardar Udham Singh, who assassinated Michael O’Dwyer in London to avenge the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. In a pointed jab, Mann contrasted this with those “who invited the accused of the Jallianwala Bagh incident on the evening of April 13, 1919,” referring to Akali leader Bikram Majithia, currently incarcerated in Nabha jail on money laundering charges.
The speech resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing AAP’s commitment to transparent governance and public welfare. As Mann concluded, he reiterated his gratitude to the people of Ludhiana West, pledging to continue delivering on their aspirations and strengthening AAP’s foothold across Punjab and beyond.
