25 April
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann addressed an election rally in support of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Aman Sher Singh Kalsi, also known as Sherry Kalsi, from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha constituency. Mann emphasized that these elections are not merely about victory or defeat but about safeguarding the honor, dignity, and democracy of the nation. He warned against succumbing to false propaganda, stating that failure to curb such misinformation could pave the way for dictatorship and undermine the democratic fabric of the country.
The rally, organized by Punjab Health Systems Corporation chairman and constituency in-charge Raman Bahl, saw Mann rallying support for Kalsi’s candidacy. Mann, known for his fiery rhetoric, expressed his commitment to the state’s development, declaring that even with thirteen arms and tongues, he would ensure progress. He took a swipe at the previous MP, Sunny Deol, accusing him of neglecting his constituency and failing to address the needs of the people.
Mann also criticized the Akali Dal, particularly the Badal family, for their purported disconnect with farmers’ issues despite claiming to be sympathizers of the farming community. He urged voters to elect Kalsi, promising that his presence in Parliament would address the deficits of the past decade. Mann, drawing from his own experience, pledged to mentor Kalsi in parliamentary proceedings.
Touching on Punjab’s electricity system, Mann highlighted the initiatives taken for the benefit of farmers, such as daytime electricity supply to fields. He underscored the state’s increased power generation capacity, citing the operation of three thermal plants and the revenue earned from selling electricity to Mumbai at night.
The rally witnessed a brief moment of panic when a member of a union managed to breach the security cordon and approach the stage during Kalsi’s address, prompting heightened security measures.