Centre consistently diluting rights of Punjab, says Sukhbir Badal

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal today condemned the Central Government’s decision to take control of Panjab University, Chandigarh, through a notification that ends elections to its Syndicate and packs the Senate with nominated and ex-officio members.

He alleged that the Centre has been consistently diluting the rights of Punjab whether it be on the issues of its capital Chandigarh, river water rights, control over the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) or Panjab University.

The SAD president also criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for remaining silent on such a significant issue.

“Punjab’s rights have been under constant attack ever since AAP came to power in the state. If you truly wish to safeguard Punjab’s interests, then support your own regional party which can effectively fight against such injustices. We will not allow Punjab’s rights to be trampled upon at any cost,” he said while addressing a public rally in support of the SAD candidate for the Tarn Taran bypoll.

Badal added that, “Once elected to government in 2027, we will ensure that every poor family has a house of its own. We will ensure that not a single kutcha house remains in the State. Moreover, we will ensure that all land situated within the Lal Dora of villages is registered to protect the property rights of the people.”

He also criticised Congress leaders for eulogising Indira Gandhi, who, he said, had ordered the attack on Darbar Sahib with tanks and mortars. He urged the people to support the Shiromani Akali Dal, asserting that it alone has the vision and will to put Punjab back on the path of development and progress.

Badal addressed gatherings in Bhuchar Kalan, Burj, Shukar Chak Cheema, Lehian, Kot Siviyan, Chabal, Baba Langah and Muradpura villages.