SAD Trade Wing Intensifies Pressure on AAP Over Charhdi Kala Fund Transparency
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Trader Wing has launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, demanding immediate transparency regarding the Charhdi Kala fund collections. In a strongly-worded statement issued from Ludhiana, the trade wing has called for the public disclosure of all money collected from trade and industry for this fund, which was established following last year's devastating floods.
Unanswered Questions About Flood Compensation
Trade wing president N K Sharma, while chairing a crucial trade committee meeting, highlighted that more than six months have passed since the fund's creation, yet the AAP administration has failed to provide any information about its utilization. "Not only should the collections be made public, but Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann should tell Punjabis why no money had been released from the fund for flood-affected farmers," Sharma asserted during the meeting.
The SAD leaders expressed deep concern that farmers who suffered immense losses during the floods have not received any compensation from this specially created fund, raising serious questions about the government's commitment to agricultural rehabilitation.
Allegations of Extortion and Gangster Shelter
In a more serious allegation, Sharma accused the AAP government of extorting money from the business community under various pretexts. He claimed that excise and taxation officers have been directed to conduct eight raids each month with a minimum penalty of Rs 8 lakh per raid, creating an atmosphere of fear among traders.
"This is on top of the extortions being received from gangsters who were being sheltered by the AAP," Sharma added, referencing the government's recent court statement that it lacked evidence against notorious gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. This revelation has intensified concerns about law and order under the current administration.
Multiple Grievances Against AAP Governance
The trade wing meeting addressed several pressing issues affecting Punjab's business environment:
- Exorbitant Power Costs: Leaders including Harpal Singh Ahluwalia, Prem Kumar Arora, and Mohit Gupta highlighted that industrial electricity rates have skyrocketed to Rs 9-10 per unit in Punjab, compared to just Rs 5 per unit in neighboring Baddi. "Why will the industry remain in Punjab?" they questioned.
- Inspector Raj: The SAD demanded an immediate end to what they termed "Inspector Raj" - excessive bureaucratic interference in business operations.
- Unimplemented Schemes: They condemned the government for failing to implement the Rahat scheme initiated by the previous SAD administration.
Controversy Over Cow Slaughter Resolution
The meeting also strongly criticized AAP's Aman Arora for proposing a resolution in the Vidhan Sabha to permit cow slaughter. The SAD expressed outrage at this move and simultaneously condemned the Congress party for agreeing to discuss the matter. In a related demand, the Akali Dal emphasized that Gaushalas (cow shelters) have yet to receive funds collected through cow cess and called for their immediate release.
Future Course of Action
Sharma announced that the trade wing plans to seek an appointment with the state Governor to formally present the numerous challenges facing Punjab's trade and industry. Additionally, he revealed that the organization will soon release a comprehensive vision document and establish a timeline for expanding their presence to constituency, circle, and village levels across Punjab.
The SAD's aggressive stance signals escalating political tensions in Punjab as opposition parties intensify their scrutiny of the AAP government's policies and governance record. With multiple allegations of financial mismanagement, extortion, and policy failures, this development marks a significant challenge to the ruling administration's credibility.
