/
 
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday met with senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Delhi’s former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in Delhi on Friday. The meeting, which followed Sisodia’s release from Tihar Jail on August 9, marked a moment of renewed optimism for the AAP as it navigates the turbulent political landscape.
 
Mann, speaking to the media, hailed Sisodia’s release as a victory over what he described as the “BJP’s oppressive tactics”. He expressed his admiration for Sisodia’s resilience during his 17-month incarceration, which he attributed to the BJP’s attempt to destabilize the AAP. “Manish Sisodia, despite enduring BJP's dictatorial approach, has emerged victorious. His release and the Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail are clear indications that truth prevails,” Mann stated.
 
Also seizing the opportunity to wish Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal a happy birthday, Mann asserted that Kejriwal, currently in custody since March 21, would soon be released. He accused the BJP of fabricating charges to keep AAP leaders imprisoned, but insisted that the party’s unity and commitment remain unwavering. “The BJP’s efforts to fracture our party have failed. We are united and stronger than ever. The people recognize the honesty and dedication of the AAP in Punjab and Delhi,” Mann said.
 
Sisodia, reflecting on the recent events, praised the progress in Punjab under Mann's leadership, particularly in the field of education. “Meeting Chief Minister Mann was inspiring. The advancements in Punjab mirror the transformative work AAP is known for. I am proud to see Punjab thriving under Mann’s guidance,” Sisodia remarked.
 
Mann's remarks extended beyond party politics, criticizing the Central Government for withholding funds from Punjab, which he claimed were essential for various development schemes. He emphasized that despite these challenges, the Punjab Government would continue to assert its rights without succumbing to pressure.
 
Looking ahead, Mann confirmed that the AAP is preparing to contest all upcoming elections as a national party. He hinted at potential shifts in the Delhi cabinet following Kejriwal’s anticipated release, underscoring the party's readiness to strengthen its leadership and policy impact.
 
Himachal MLA Attacked by Bikers in Hoshiarpur
Una: Congress MLA Vivek Sharma from Kutlehar in Himachal Pradesh was attacked by two unidentified bikers in Hoshiarpur on Thursday. Sharma was returning from Jalandhar when the assailants struck his car with a rod, shattering the rear windshield.
 
According to Sharma, the attack occurred as he was en route to his native village. Despite a brief pursuit by his driver, the bikers managed to escape. Sharma, who was unharmed, reported the incident to the local police station in Hoshiarpur.
 
A police case has been registered, and efforts are underway to apprehend the attackers. Sharma, who had recently won a by-election from Kutlehar, expressed his concerns and sought prompt action from the authorities to ensure justice.