Chandigarh (National Times): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday hit back at the opposition, particularly Congress leader Partap Bajwa, over his claim that over 32 AAP MLAs were in touch with him. Addressing the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Special Session, CM Mann dismissed these statements as baseless political gossip and accused the opposition of being directionless.
Referring to repeated speculation about his tenure, Mann said, “First, they said I wouldn’t last six months as CM. When I completed six months, they claimed I wouldn’t survive a year. Later, they insisted I’d be removed after the Delhi elections. They keep spreading false narratives, but I am still here, stronger than ever.”
Taking a jibe at former CM Capt. Amarinder Singh, Mann likened his leadership style to a rare sighting on Discovery Channel, saying, “Your own CM used to disappear for months. He was like a Discovery Channel documentary—only visible once in a while. Instead of creating baseless speculations, focus on your own failures.”
Mann also mocked the Congress party’s internal disunity, challenging them to unite even seven MLAs in the Assembly. He also dismissed the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) as politically irrelevant, stating that it no longer holds any significant presence in Punjab.
Discussing governance, Mann contrasted his government’s proactive approach on farmers’ issues with Congress’ inaction. “We stood up for farmers within a month of their protest, while Congress leaders remained absent. They only talk but never act,” he stated.
On the topic of employment, the Punjab CM assured complete transparency, saying, “We have received several questions regarding the number of jobs provided to Punjab’s youth. We have the data ready—please feel free to check it.”
Promising a strong state budget, Mann asserted that his government does not engage in corruption or target political opponents unnecessarily. “We may not have smugglers or massive wealth, but we work with honesty for Punjab’s welfare,” he declared.
