Punjab CM Mann dismisses defection claims, says 'AAP built with hard work and will make Punjab a model state'
PTC Web Desk: Amid heightened political activity in Punjab after the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) defeat in Delhi Assembly elections and Congress' claiming that 35 AAP MLAs are ready to leave the party, with 30 of them already in contact with Congress leaders, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday held a crucial meeting with all Punjab MLAs in Delhi.
The meeting, which lasted for only 30 minutes, was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia.
After the meeting, Ludhiana MLA Ashok Parashar revealed that Arvind Kejriwal motivated party members by stating, “We fought a tough battle in Delhi. Even if someone wins through money, dishonesty, or intimidation, we must not feel weak. Instead, we need to prepare ourselves for the next election with even greater strength.”
Entry to the meeting was strictly regulated, with only those whose names were on the official list being allowed inside. Some AAP MLAs admitted they were unaware of the meeting’s agenda but asserted that neither CM Bhagwant Mann would be replaced nor would any MLA defect to another party.
Later, addressing the media, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann alleged that the electoral process was influenced by “money and muscle power.” He said AAP had to approach the Election Commission multiple times to report alleged violations such as cash and jacket distribution. “We believe in winning through public support. We have fulfilled our guarantees and even undertaken additional work beyond our promises,” Mann stated.
He highlighted several achievements of his government, including the shutdown of toll plazas, saving Rs 62 lakh per day, and discontinuing multiple pensions for politicians. “We are committed to ensuring public funds are used only for public welfare,” he asserted.
Refuting opposition claims about Punjab’s deteriorating law and order situation, CM Mann challenged critics to assess the ground reality. “If law and order were weak, why would major companies invest here? We are also actively tackling the drug menace and constantly coordinating with officials to ensure people’s safety,” he said.
Dismissing allegations of MLAs switching parties, CM Mann remarked, “Opposition leaders have been claiming for years that 30-40 of our MLAs will leave. Let them say what they want. We built this party with our hard work, and our volunteers are dedicated.” He also alleged that Union Minister Ravneet Bittu had a role in framing false cases against AAP leaders.
Mann claimed that Punjab was progressing under AAP’s governance, with the state emerging as a model for the entire country. “Punjab has always led the way, whether in agriculture or industrial growth. Today, Tata Steel is setting up India’s second-largest plant in Punjab, after Jamshedpur. Jobs are being provided based on merit, with multiple members from the same family securing employment,” he added.
CM Mann reiterated that his government remains committed to working for the people. “Our work in electricity, education, healthcare, and infrastructure will continue. Even after a decade, people in Delhi acknowledge the impact of AAP’s governance. Similarly, Punjab will emerge as a model state,” he added.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema also dismissed concerns of instability within Punjab AAP. He said today's meeting with party supremo Arvind Kejriwal was primarily to express gratitude to party workers and leaders for their contributions to the Delhi elections.
He also highlighted the government's achievements, claiming that four out of five major promises had been fulfilled in three years, with the only remaining pledge—providing Rs 1,000 per month to women—expected to be implemented soon.
AAP Punjab president Aman Arora also reinforced the party’s unity, stating that Kejriwal frequently holds discussions with party leaders to strategise governance improvements in Punjab. He said today's meeting was part of routine interactions and was not indicative of any internal crisis.
- PTC NEWS
