Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday took the campaign reins in his own hands for the upcoming by-elections in Punjab, as he rallied support for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Harinder Singh Dhaliwal in Barnala. Mann’s energetic roadshow was a vibrant display of the AAP’s commitment to secure the Barnala seat while delivering pointed criticisms of rival parties, especially the BJP and Akali Dal.
Mann, in a rousing speech post-roadshow, expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming welcome from Barnala’s residents. Reflecting on his previous campaigns, he stated, “Earlier, I’d come here to request votes and present election promises. Today, I’m sharing the work our government has accomplished.” He acknowledged a growing public disdain for traditional politicians but noted the people’s enduring trust in him, saying, “Today, you filled my vehicle with flowers. It shows the faith you’ve placed in us.”
Targeting the Akali Dal’s decline, Mann quipped, “Those who claimed they’d rule Punjab for 25 years now struggle to find four candidates for this by-election.” He alluded to the party’s loss of public confidence, contrasting the Akali Dal’s motto of “mera mera” (mine) with Baba Nanak’s ideal of “tera tera” (belonging to the Almighty), which he claimed the Akali leaders had ignored in pursuit of personal gain.
Taking direct aim at BJP candidate Kewal Dhillon, Mann pointed out Dhillon’s past defeats in Barnala by both him and AAP’s Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer. “Dhillon only shows up here to file nomination papers,” Mann commented, “and despite changing his party, his luck will be unchanged — once again, Barnala’s people will reject him.” He portrayed Dhillon and Akali leaders as relics of Punjab’s political past, claiming they were involved in a “friendly match” until AAP entered the scene and shook the status quo.
Mann also addressed the public’s demands for accountability, assuring voters of his dedication to prosecuting those involved in cases of sacrilege and other injustices. “We’re fully committed to securing justice, and we’re making every possible effort,” he stated, calling for patience while underscoring his administration’s serious intent on the issue.
As he rallied Barnala’s voters, Mann urged them to cast their ballots based on AAP’s track record in the state. “If you trust in what we’ve done, vote for Harinder Singh Dhaliwal,” he said, pointing to AAP’s ongoing mission to bring positive change to Punjab.
