SAD President Sukhbir Badal Issues Stern Warning to AAP Government Over Punjab's Crime Situation
In a fiery address at a rally in Fatehgarh Churian, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal launched a scathing critique against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab. He cautioned that investors are likely to hesitate in committing to the state until the alleged pervasive atmosphere of crime and gangsterism is effectively brought under control.
Badal Questions Timing and Motives of Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit
Speaking as part of the SAD's 'Punjab Bachao' campaign, Badal targeted the state government's Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit, which was launched on the same day. He argued that while the AAP government showcases assets like airports, superior road connectivity, and power-surplus status to attract investors, these were actually created during the tenure of the previous SAD government. Despite these existing advantages, Badal alleged that investors remain wary due to the prevailing "gangster culture" in Punjab.
He further questioned the timing of the summit, noting that holding it near the end of the government's term, rather than in its initial year, suggests it may be more of a propaganda exercise than a genuine effort to boost investment. "The AAP government is showing investors airports, superior road connectivity, and power-surplus status, all of which were created by the erstwhile SAD government," Badal stated, emphasizing that these factors are insufficient to overcome investor concerns about safety and stability.
Criticism of AAP Leadership and Financial Policies
Badal also raised questions about the leadership of the summit, specifically targeting AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal. "Is he the chief minister of Punjab?" he asked, implying that Kejriwal's involvement might be inappropriate or misleading. Additionally, Badal accused the AAP government of attempting to mislead women voters through financial maneuvers.
He highlighted that the government is taking a loan of Rs 52,000 crore this year, adding to a total loan of Rs 2 lakh crore over the past four years. Badal alleged that by selling government properties and indebting the state, the AAP is using part of these proceeds to purchase women's votes, a tactic he claims voters will see through and reject.
SAD's Welfare Promises for Women if Elected to Power
Outlining his party's commitments, Badal promised that if the SAD is voted back into power, it will strengthen welfare measures for women significantly. Key proposals include:
- Raising the emoluments under the Shagun scheme to Rs 1 lakh for the marriage of daughters from underprivileged sections of society.
- Increasing old age pension to Rs 3,100 per month.
- Reviving the aata–dal scheme by providing flour at Rs 4 per kg and pulses at Rs 20 per kg to beneficiaries.
These pledges aim to address economic hardships and garner support from key voter demographics, positioning the SAD as a pro-welfare alternative to the current administration.
Prominent SAD Leaders Attend the Rally
The rally saw the presence of several notable SAD figures, including Bikram Singh Majithia, Daljit Singh Cheema, Sucha Singh Langah, Guriqbal Singh Mahal, Rajanbir Ghumann, Raman Sandhu, Naresh Mahajan, Kamaljeet Chawla, and Mandeep Singh Lodhinangal. Their attendance underscored the party's unified front in challenging the AAP government's policies and promoting its vision for Punjab's future.
