CM urges people to embrace people-centric politics of AAP
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann conducted a roadshow in Ludhiana on Thursday, rallying support for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidates contesting the Municipal Corporation elections. The roadshow witnessed enthusiastic residents showering flower petals and welcoming him.
Addressing the gathering, Mann shared his deep connection with Ludhiana, calling it his ‘karmabhoomi’ (workplace). He reminisced about his early career, which began in the bustling markets of the city. “This market is not new to me. I used to frequent these streets when I was starting out. Ludhiana has given me so much love and now it’s my responsibility to give back to the city,” he said.
AAP Punjab president Aman Arora, working president Amansher Singh Sharry Kalsi, AAP ministers, Ludhiana MLAs and a large number of party’s office-bearers also accompanied the Chief Minister during the roadshow.
Mann contrasted AAP’s commitment to progress with the previous administration’s failures, asserting: “Earlier, municipal corporations never focused on development. Funds belonged to the people, yet they weren’t utilised for public welfare. Under AAP, every penny will be spent for the betterment of the people.”
The Chief Minister also took a jibe at rival political parties, particularly the Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal), stating that people are hesitant to even shake hands with leaders from those parties for fear of losing their rings. “These parties have betrayed the trust of the people for years. It’s time to clean the system with the broom and give Ludhiana the governance it truly deserves,” he remarked.
“Time is powerful. Those who committed sins in the name of God are now witnessing their election symbols erased from voting machines,” he stated.
Highlighting the public’s growing awareness, Mann urged voters to reject such parties and embrace honest, people-centric politics of the Aam Aadmi Party. “The people of Punjab have the power to decide the future, and this time, they will choose integrity over deceit,” he added.
Mann assured the public that Ludhiana would see unparalleled growth under AAP’s leadership. “This city, known as the heart of Punjab, deserves to regain its glory. With an AAP mayor in the municipal corporation and an AAP-led government in the state, there will be no dearth of support or resources. If any shortcomings remain, I take full responsibility.”
He concluded by emphasising the need for unity and secularism, stating: “Punjab is a land of shared festivals and brotherhood. No seeds of hatred will ever sprout here and anyone dreaming of dividing the state is living in an illusion.”
Centre must initiate talks with farmers, says Mann
CM Bhagwant Mann urged the Central Government to initiate talks with farmers to address their concerns. “It is the responsibility of the Centre to engage in a dialogue with farmers. Any issue can only be resolved through constructive conversation. The government must set aside its stubbornness and listen to the farmers,” he stated.
Shops closed, route diverted by cops
The police got shops shut and some routes were diverted keeping in view security reasons due to the roadshow taken out by the CM, which was supposed to go through the busy Ghumar Mandi market. A shopkeeper, Manoj Kumar, said they were already going through a difficult phase in business and on Thursday, shops had been shut.
