March 5th 2025.
Chandigarh: The Shiromani Akali Dal has expressed their disapproval of the current situation faced by farmers, who are being prohibited from coming to the state capital to protest. At the same time, they have noticed the grand welcome being given to Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal, with a huge convoy of more than 100 vehicles accompanying him on his journey from Chandigarh to Hoshiarpur for a Vipassana session.
The senior leader of the Akali Dal, Daljit Singh Cheema, has called upon Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to explain this discrepancy. He has questioned the need for such a lavish welcome for Kejriwal, who holds no constitutional authority and has no connection to Punjab. Cheema has strongly condemned the Chief Minister for promoting such a display of power and privilege.
This move by Kejriwal has been heavily criticized by all parties, with BJP leader Tarun Chugh accusing him of coming to Punjab with malicious intentions to exploit the state. Chugh has raised questions about Kejriwal's capacity to hold meetings with government officials and give them directions, considering he is currently out on bail. Even AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal has questioned the need for such a large security cover for Kejriwal, comparing it to the security provided to US President Donald Trump.
Kejriwal, along with his wife, is in Hoshiarpur to attend a 10-day meditation course at the Dhamma Dhaja Vipassana Centre. This is his second visit to the centre, the first being in December 2023. Responding to this visit, Cheema has called out the Chief Minister for inviting farmers for talks and then walking out of the meeting in a fit of anger when reminded of the promises made to them.
Cheema has also highlighted the plight of farmers in Punjab, who have not received the promised minimum support price for their crops and have also not been compensated for crop losses. He has compared this to neighbouring states like Rajasthan, where a bonus of Rs. 150 per quintal has been announced for wheat farmers.
The Akali Dal leader has also criticized the Chief Minister for trying to divert attention from the demands of farmers by launching a supposed campaign against corruption and drugs. He has accused the AAP government of institutionalizing corruption and allowing the drug trade to thrive.
Cheema has also announced that the membership drive of SAD is almost complete, with around 20 lakh membership slips already received and more expected in the coming days.
It is clear that Kejriwal's visit to Punjab has sparked controversy and has raised questions about the state government's priorities and actions. The people of Punjab deserve answers and accountability from their leaders, especially when it comes to issues affecting their livelihoods and well-being.
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