Reiterating his government’s commitment to safeguarding minority rights, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday declared that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) would vehemently oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill introduced by the BJP-led NDA Government. He assured the Muslim community that his government stood firmly with them in rejecting the proposed legislation, which has sparked strong opposition from the Muslim community across the country.
Mann, speaking to the media after offering Eid prayers at Malerkotla’s historic Eid Gah, emphasized that his government would challenge the Bill at every platform, including the Parliament and the Punjab Vidhan Sabha. “Our Muslim brethren are opposing this Bill vehemently, and AAP is solidly with them at this hour. We will oppose this legislation tooth and nail,” he said.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s broader commitment to the welfare of all communities in Punjab, ensuring that no section of society is neglected. He further highlighted his administration’s dedication to the optimum utilization of Punjab’s groundwater resources, citing the revival of 15,947 water courses across the State, which has enabled better irrigation access for farmers and reduced dependency on underground water reserves.
Mann also acknowledged the prayers offered during Eid celebrations for the eradication of drugs from Punjab, terming it a positive sign of public support for the ‘Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh’ campaign. He underscored that government action alone would not suffice in combating the drug menace, emphasizing that public cooperation was critical to making Punjab a drug-free state. “It is heartening to see people actively backing our anti-drug campaign. This war can only be won if the people and the government work hand in hand,” he added.
In a significant Eid bonanza for Punjab’s only Muslim-majority city, Mann announced a Rs 200 crore development package for Malerkotla, reaffirming his government’s commitment to its progress. Addressing a large gathering at the Eid Gah, he said that the historic town would be developed into a ‘Model District’ with state-of-the-art infrastructure and civic amenities.
Announcing key projects, Mann revealed that a 100-seat Government Medical College would soon be established in Malerkotla, alongside a 200-bed super specialty hospital. Additionally, the existing Government Girls’ College would be upgraded to enhance educational opportunities for young women in the region. The Chief Minister also confirmed that funds had been allocated for the construction of a new District Administrative Complex, a Tehsil Complex in Malerkotla and Amargarh, a modern bus stand, improved link roads, and upgraded sanitation facilities.
“Punjabis, particularly Sikhs, can never forget the sacrifice and bravery of Malerkotla’s Nawab Sher Mohammad Khan, who raised his voice against the execution of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons. Our government will ensure that no stone is left unturned in developing this historic town,” Mann stated.
He further announced the launch of a mini-bus service for rural areas, with permits to be issued to unemployed youth to generate job opportunities while improving public transport. Stressing his administration’s zero tolerance for corruption and illegal encroachments, he assured that Malerkotla’s holistic development would be carried out transparently and efficiently.
