The Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab faces sharp criticism from the Shiromani Akali Dal over its recent declaration of three cities as holy sites, with the opposition party dismissing the move as an empty political gesture lacking substantive development plans.
Formal Announcement Without Substance
Responding to questions about the Holy City resolution passed during a special session of the Vidhan Sabha in Anandpur Sahib, SAD spokesperson Daljit Singh Cheema launched a scathing attack on the ruling government. "It was just a formal announcement," Cheema stated emphatically, highlighting that these cities had already been declared holy during previous Akali Dal administrations.
The political veteran questioned the significance of the government's action, asking pointedly, "What big thing have they done by making a formal announcement?" His comments underscore the growing political tension between the two parties over development priorities in Punjab's religious centers.
Missing Development Infrastructure
Cheema outlined several critical areas where the government has failed to deliver meaningful development for Anandpur Sahib. "For Anandpur Sahib, the government should have announced a major university and coordinated efforts to establish a good train service," he asserted, pointing to the lack of substantial infrastructure projects.
The SAD leader emphasized the urgent need for better road connectivity and a good hospital to properly serve the area's residents and pilgrims. His comments reflect long-standing concerns about inadequate infrastructure in Punjab's important religious towns despite their cultural and historical significance.
Selective Development Approach
Cheema accused the AAP-led government of pursuing selective development priorities while ignoring crucial needs. "Ignoring all these things, just a formal announcement was made. People understand all such things," he remarked, suggesting that voters can see through what he characterized as political posturing.
In a direct swipe at the government's focus areas, Cheema noted, "You talk about Galiara, which is the periphery of Darbar Sahib, but don't talk about the walled city." This criticism highlights what the opposition perceives as misplaced priorities in the government's urban development strategy for religious centers.
The SAD spokesperson concluded that "there is nothing new in what has been announced," positioning the holy city declaration as a recycled initiative that fails to address the region's pressing development needs. The criticism comes as both parties gear up for future electoral battles in Punjab.
