Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today actively campaigned for Aam Aadmi Party’s candidate Sanjeev Arora in the Haibowal and Gopal Nagar areas of Ludhiana West assembly constituency. The campaign was supported by prominent leaders including Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO, MLAs Gurpreet Singh Banawali and Chaudhary Madan Lal Bagga, Ludhiana Mayor, councilors, and other AAP MLAs.
Addressing massive gatherings, CM Bhagwant Mann emphasized the need for clean politics and people-centric governance. He appealed to voters to elect AAP candidate Sanjeev Arora in the Ludhiana West by-election to ensure the continuation of development initiatives. CM Mann’s speech focused on empowering youth, women, and common families while strongly criticizing political opponents for their failures.
CM Mann lauded the large turnout of women, calling it a source of inspiration. He urged women to actively participate in politics, stating, “If a home cannot run without women, how can a country?” He highlighted the need for their involvement in addressing social and political issues.
Highlighting Sanjeev Arora’s tenure as Rajya Sabha MP, CM Mann said Arora has been instrumental in driving Ludhiana's progress. From the completion of the Halwara Airport to upgrading healthcare facilities like the ESI Hospital and Civil Hospital, Arora’s contributions reflect his commitment to the city.
CM Mann assured the public that electing Arora would ensure continued focus on development, including education, infrastructure, and public welfare. CM Mann spoke passionately about the government’s initiatives to transform Punjab into a land of opportunities.
He highlighted the success of 44 students from ordinary families who cleared the JEE Advanced exam under the government's free coaching scheme, paving the way for brighter futures with high-paying jobs. “These children will fulfill their parents' dreams and change their families’ destinies,” he remarked.
Taking a dig at opposition parties, CM Mann accused them of engaging in corrupt and divisive politics. “Congress leaders fight for chairs, not for people’s welfare. Akali leaders nurtured drug and gangster culture in Punjab, and now they claim to be saviors,” he said. He also criticized the misuse of religion for political gains, emphasizing the need for unity and harmony.
CM Bhagwant Mann strongly criticized the opportunistic behavior of opposition leaders, particularly Sukhbir Singh Badal. He pointed out how such leaders exploited Punjab's resources for personal gains while masquerading as allies of the people. Mann said during the farmers' protests, they claimed to stand with farmers but we know who they actually supported and how they amassed wealth through unethical practices.
He emphasized that these leaders prioritize power over principles, shifting their loyalties wherever they see personal benefits, even at the expense of the state’s progress. Outlining his vision for Punjab’s industrial resurgence, Mann revealed significant developments, including the arrival of Tata Steel and substantial support for MSMEs.
He emphasized that these initiatives would stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and make Punjab a hub for industrial activity. Mann assured the people that his government is focused on providing the necessary facilities and infrastructure to attract large-scale investments, which will ultimately benefit every household in the state.
CM Mann assured the voters that his government is committed to eradicating corruption, drug abuse, and gangster culture in Punjab. He stated, “We will not forgive anyone who has harmed Punjab’s youth, no matter how powerful they are. Illegal activities have no place in this state.”
He also highlighted his administration's accomplishments, including providing 54,154 merit-based government jobs without favoritism. The Chief Minister expressed his determination to resolve Punjab's decades-old problems fostered by previous governments, such as mismanagement of natural resources and misuse of public funds.
Speaking about water distribution, he assured that Punjab would use its rightful share without depriving others, asserting, “We will not allow anyone to take even a drop of water unjustly. We are heirs to Bhai Kanhaiya Ji, but we don't let anyone loot our water.” He criticized previous governments for neglecting Punjab’s water resources.
Highlighting his government’s crackdown on drugs and crime, CM Mann stated that drug suppliers and gangsters would not be spared. He encouraged families to support rehabilitation for drug users, treating them as patients, but vowed strict action against those profiting from drug trafficking. “These profiteers have destroyed families and built lavish homes; they will face bulldozers, not forgiveness,” he warned.
He reiterated his government’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse and fostering a safe and healthy Punjab. CM Mann underlined the importance of unity among Punjabis, stating, “Our soil is fertile for every seed, but hatred cannot grow here. Brotherhood is our strength.”
He condemned the divisive politics of opposition parties, particularly their misuse of religion to manipulate sentiments. Stressing inclusivity, he added, “As the Chief Minister of 3.5 crore Punjabis, it is my duty to address everyone’s issues, regardless of their vote.” CM Mann called on the people to join hands in restoring Punjab’s glory, emphasizing progress for all sections of society.
CM Bhagwant Mann strongly criticized Ashu for his involvement in multiple corruption cases, pointing out that despite his false claims of being acquitted, several cases related to tender scams and transport irregularities are still ongoing in court. Mann accused Ashu of arrogance and exploiting his position for personal gain while ignoring the plight of the common people.
He emphasized that such corrupt and egoistic leaders have no place in Punjab’s politics and vowed that his government will continue to expose and hold accountable those who have harmed the state. The Chief Minister ended his speech with a clarion call to vote for Sanjeev Arora on June 19, ensuring that Ludhiana continues to prosper under AAP's leadership.
“When you elect Sanjeev Arora, Ludhiana will win. This is not just about one election; it’s about securing a brighter future for your children,” he said.
Sanjeev Arora Promises Fourfold Harder Work as MLA
During these events, Sanjeev Arora recounted his significant achievements as a Rajya Sabha MP over the past three years and appealed to the people of Ludhiana West to elect him as their MLA. He assured voters that if elected, he will work four times harder to accelerate development and address the needs of the constituency.
Sanjeev Arora highlighted several key accomplishments during his tenure as Rajya Sabha MP. He successfully oversaw the completion of Halwara Airport, which is expected to accelerate the region’s development by 5%. He expedited the construction of the elevated road to reduce pollution and ease traffic congestion, coordinating closely with multiple government departments to ensure timely completion.
Additionally, he facilitated the building of four new bridges over the Sidhwan Canal and worked with NHAI to introduce 700 new parking spaces in Ludhiana to address vehicle congestion, 150 police personnel as additional force for Ludhiana. Arora also led a complete revamp of the ICU and emergency services at the ESI Hospital, and played a pivotal role in renovating and transforming the Civil Hospital into a world-class medical facility.
He worked for roads in the focal point area and spearheaded upgradation at Ludhiana Railway Station in first phase. Within two months, he ensured the repair and maintenance of all roads in Ludhiana. To enhance city sanitation, 19 super suction machines were deployed.
Arora also resolved property registration issues that had been pending for 75 years, successfully transferring ownership rights to 1,600 families for their homes. Furthermore, thanks to his interference ₹1.5 crores were allotted to a local school and ₹17 crores to develop a School of Eminence.
Sanjeev Arora concluded by promising the people of Ludhiana West that, as their MLA, he will dedicate himself to working four times harder to fulfill their aspirations and continue the path of progress.