Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday accused the BJP-led central government of targeting him through the CBI and ED for fighting for Punjab’s rights, and asserted that he would never compromise on the state’s interests or the dignity of its people.
Addressing the Lok Milni programme in Ballaran village of Sangrur district, Mann said, “My honesty is my greatest wealth, and the love and trust of three crore Punjabis are my real strength. My stake is not in buses, sand, contracts or roadside vending stalls. My stake lies in the joys and sorrows of the people of Punjab. Their hopes are my responsibility, and their struggles are my own. I entered politics to serve the people, and public service will always remain the guiding principle of my government.”
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Punjab CM says he will not compromise on state’s interests
Taking on the BJP over the use of central investigative agencies, the chief minister stated, “I am fighting for the rights of Punjab, and that is why the BJP has sent the ED and CBI after me. Those who raise their voice for Punjab and refuse to compromise on its interests are being subjected to political pressure. But I will never surrender the rights of Punjab or the dignity of its people for personal comfort.”
{{/usCountry}}Taking on the BJP over the use of central investigative agencies, the chief minister stated, “I am fighting for the rights of Punjab, and that is why the BJP has sent the ED and CBI after me. Those who raise their voice for Punjab and refuse to compromise on its interests are being subjected to political pressure. But I will never surrender the rights of Punjab or the dignity of its people for personal comfort.”
{{/usCountry}}Mann said the opposition parties wanted to capture power not to serve Punjab, but to regain control over the state’s resources and exploit them for their own interests.
“Punjab has suffered enough under politics driven by vested interests. The people want honest leadership, opportunities for their children and a government that stands beside them in difficult times. Our government is committed to fulfilling these aspirations rather than serving a privileged few.”
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CM highlights merit-based government recruitment
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to transparent recruitment, the chief minister said, “For the first time in Punjab, young people are getting government jobs without bribes or political recommendations. We have provided more than 70,680 government jobs purely on merit. For generations, young people were made to believe that securing a government job required money, influence or political connections. We are determined to change that mindset. No deserving young person should have to approach a politician or pay a bribe to secure employment.”
He said his government’s objective was to ensure that merit, rather than money or political influence, determined the future of young people.
“I seek the people’s trust because I want to serve them. My strength comes from the people of Punjab, not from positions of power. As long as they continue to support me, I will keep fighting for their rights, dignity and a better future for the next generation,” he added.
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CM lists measures aimed at easing household costs
The chief minister said his government had taken several steps to ease the financial burden on households and improve public services.
These included free electricity, employment for more than 70,000 young people, road improvements, better education and healthcare, and the closure of toll plazas that were saving commuters approximately ₹70 lakh daily.
“Public money must serve public interests. Our government is working to ensure that the benefits of development reach ordinary families rather than being confined to a privileged few,” he said.
On the occasion, Mann announced development grants of ₹35 lakh for Ballaran and ₹25 lakh for neighbouring Lehal Khurd, taking the total allocation to ₹60 lakh.