Harsimrat targets AAP over graft, drug menace

Senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing both of betraying Punjab's interests and misleading its people. She urged voters to back the SAD, describing it as the only party that had fought for the state's rights and welfare.

Addressing a series of public meetings in support of SAD candidate Principal Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa, Harsimrat said her party was committed to expanding welfare schemes for farmers, the poor and the youth once it returns to power in 2027.

"We will provide houses for the homeless, enhance old-age pensions and create five lakh jobs for the youth. The SAD government will ensure employment for Punjabis and prevent outsiders from purchasing land,” she asserted.

The Bathinda MP said the Akali Dal had always honoured its commitments. "We never lied for political gain. From free power for farmers to welfare schemes like old-age pension, atta-daal and Shagun, we fulfilled every promise. The Congress and AAP, on the other hand, have only deceived people, she said.

Holding the CM responsible for rising corruption and poor law and order in the state, Harsimrat referred to the recent raid on DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar, claiming that crores in cash, gold and property documents were seized. She alleged that the AAP leaders were "looting Punjab.