SAD President Sukhbir Badal Condemns AAP Government's Financial Strategies in Bathinda
In a significant political address at Maur town in Bathinda, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal launched a scathing critique against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on Sunday. Badal asserted that the AAP administration is poised to secure a massive loan of Rs 52,000 crore this year, with intentions to sell government-owned lands to finance what he described as a vote-purchasing scheme. Specifically, he highlighted the government's plan to provide an allowance of Rs 1,000 to women for a limited duration, alleging it is a tactic to sway voters rather than a genuine welfare effort.
Accusations of Hollow Promises and Financial Mismanagement
Badal elaborated on his claims, stating that if the AAP government were truly committed to supporting women, it would have fulfilled its earlier promise by allocating Rs 60,000 to each woman from the day it assumed power. Instead, he accused the government of offering a temporary allowance to secure votes. Furthermore, he criticized the budget announcements, pointing out that despite previous unfulfilled promises regarding medical colleges, the AAP has pledged to establish 16 new medical colleges without allocating any funds for them. He also noted that no financial provisions have been made for implementing the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for government employees or providing incentives to the trade and industry sectors.
SAD's Vision for Punjab's Future Under Badal's Leadership
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Sukhbir Badal outlined ambitious plans for the SAD if it returns to power. He announced the party's commitment to establishing a world-class skill university on 300 acres in Bathinda, aimed at training one lakh youth through collaborations with industrial houses to meet market demands. Additionally, he vowed to halt the flow of water into the Rajasthan canal, blaming the Congress party for what he termed a historic injustice in diverting Punjab's water resources to Rajasthan. Badal emphasized that the SAD is dedicated to rectifying this issue and promoting regional development.
Support from SAD Leaders and Focus on Constituency Development
During the rally, Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal highlighted the developmental achievements during the SAD's tenure, including the establishment of new schools, irrigation schemes, and improvements in health and road infrastructure. Senior leaders Janmeja Singh Sekhon and Bikram Singh Majithia also addressed the gathering, reinforcing the party's stance and rallying support. The event underscored the SAD's ongoing efforts to challenge the AAP's governance and present a viable alternative for Punjab's future, focusing on economic stability, skill development, and resource management.
