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Punjab should be in hands of Punjabis: Pargat
Former hockey Olympian-turned-politician Pargat Singh, who has joined the Awaaz-e-Punjab political front, says the outfit will put Punjabiat at the forefront and create a niche for itself through a “different” style of functioning.
Former hockey Olympian-turned-politician Pargat Singh, who has joined the Awaaz-e-Punjab political front, says the outfit will put Punjabiat at the forefront and create a niche for itself through a “different” style of functioning. Excerpts of an interview:
What is this front all about? How will it be different?
As the name suggests, this front will give voice to Punjabis who genuinely want to see the state out of the clutches of politician-cum-businessman nexus. We will give people an option to shun forces that are trying to use Punjab for their personal gains. It will be a true front of Punjabis, putting Punjabiyat at the forefront.
Does it mean that your and Sidhu’s chances of getting into AAP are over? If yes, what went wrong?
(Laughs) Isn’t it enough to conclude that we are not joining the AAP? See the problem with the AAP and, for that matter, all other parties is that they lack seriousness in what they promise.
Read: AAP donation graph in Punjab falling
How will the front cover the entire state as polls are only months away? Who will finance the front?
Do you think this front is only about Sidhu, Bains brothers and Pargat? Inne chhote bachche vi ni asin (We aren’t kids). We will announce details about the front on September 8 or 9. You won’t believe what is going to happen (again laughs). We will win polls on issues not money. Aaage aage dekhiye hota hai kya (See what happens next).
Is this front anti-Akali and AAP more than it is to Congress?
With all due grace, let me tell you, joining Congress was also an option before us. If we had any soft corner for the Congress, we could have joined it directly. We will take on all rival political outfits head-on.
Don’t you think the front will split the anti-incumbency votes and end up benefitting the SAD-BJP?
It’s a question in the mind of every Punjabi. A person called me up to ask me if we were playing in the hands of the SAD. Pargat and Sidhu have some credibility.
Who will be the leader of this front?
In our meetings, we have discussed each and every aspect. There is a complete clarity on the issue. As far as leader of the front is concerned, everybody knows who it will be. Let the formal announcement come. We all have decided to work round the clock in the coming months.
Read: Sidhu will lead, new party will contest all seats: Simarjeet Bains
Are you open for inducting Sucha Singh Chhotepur, Dharamvira Gandhi and other disgruntled AAP leaders?
Every credible person is welcome from any party or any section of society. Punjab should be in the hands of Punjabis.
Read: AAP splits in Punjab, Chhotepur may bat for Navjot Sidhu
