Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced on Monday that the state government will strongly oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill introduced by the BJP-led NDA government.
Speaking to the media after participating in the Eid festival, Mann stated that the Muslim community has vehemently opposed the bill and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is fully supportive of their stance. He assured that the party would stand firmly against the bill in both the Parliament and the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, aiming to protect the interests of the Muslim community.
"Our government is fully committed to ensuring the well-being of every section of society, and no stone will be left unturned in safeguarding their rights," Mann emphasized.
Responding to a query about groundwater management, the Chief Minister highlighted that the state government is committed to optimizing groundwater usage. He pointed out that since the AAP government took charge, a total of 15,947 watercourses have been revived in the state, ensuring that water has reached even the most remote villages. This initiative is helping conserve groundwater while also ensuring that farmers have access to irrigation through canal water.
Mann expressed his satisfaction with the support for the "Yudh Nasheyan Virudh" (War on Drugs) campaign, particularly the prayers offered at local Eid Gahs. He stressed that tackling the drug menace in Punjab requires active public participation, which is essential to make the state drug-free. "The fight against drugs can only be won with the cooperation of the people," he said, underscoring the importance of public involvement in this critical issue.
The Chief Minister also discussed the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in Punjab, announcing a comprehensive plan to give all state roads a complete facelift. He emphasized that the development of roads plays a key role in facilitating transportation and boosting economic growth. "These roads will not only improve commuting but also act as a catalyst for the state’s economic development," he said.
In a significant move, Chief Minister Mann announced Rs 200 crore in development projects for the historic town of Malerkotla, marking a major Eid bonanza for the local Muslim community. The Chief Minister highlighted that Malerkotla, with its rich historical and cultural significance, would receive a major upgrade with the allocated funds. Mann expressed his hopes that these projects would help strengthen the bonds of communal harmony, peace, and brotherhood in the state.
The Chief Minister also vowed to turn Malerkotla into a "Model District," acknowledging the historical contributions of the Nawab of Malerkotla, who opposed the execution of the Chhota Sahibzadas. He assured that the district would be equipped with modern infrastructure and civic amenities, with efforts already underway to develop the city comprehensively.
In addition, Mann announced the construction of a 100-seat medical college and a 200-bed super-specialty hospital in Malerkotla, which would make the district a hub for medical education and healthcare services. The existing girls' college will also be upgraded to improve educational facilities in the region. Mann said that the government had allocated funds for the construction of a new District Administrative Complex and Tehsil Complex in Malerkotla, as well as a Tehsil Complex in Amargarh.
The Chief Minister also shared plans to improve connectivity with the construction of new roads, including strengthening Jarg-Rauni and Khanna Road, as well as building new bus stands, sanitation facilities, and playgrounds in Malerkotla and nearby villages. He also announced the launch of a Mini Bus Service for rural areas, which will provide job opportunities for unemployed youth and improve transport in rural regions.
Mann reiterated that the state government would continue its fight against illegal properties, corruption in the Revenue Department, and the drug menace, with Rs 200 crore allocated for Malerkotla’s development. He concluded by assuring that the state government is dedicated to the inclusive growth and prosperity of the district.
