Akali Dal safeguarded Punjab’s rights since pre-Independence: Sukhbir Badal at Punjab Bachao Rally

A large gathering marked the Punjab Bachao Rally, organised by the Shiromani Akali Dal at Sandhu Farm in Chabbewal, where party president Sukhbir Singh Badal addressed party workers and supporters despite heavy rain.

As Badal arrived on stage, the crowd raised slogans demanding a change of government. In his address, he said that the SAD, with a legacy of over 100 years, has been committed to protecting the rights of Punjabis since before Independence. He claimed that major development in the state had taken place during Akali governments.

Referring to former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, he said the late leader used to directly interact with village representatives to assess development needs, unlike the present government, which he alleged depends on directions from Delhi. He criticised national parties, stating that they look towards Delhi for decisions, while the Akali Dal, being a regional party, prioritises Punjab’s interests.

Highlighting past achievements, Badal said infrastructure such as schools, roads, dams and colleges was developed during Akali rule. He also credited previous Akali governments with providing free electricity to farmers’ tubewells and expanding irrigation through canals.

Outlining future plans, he said that if voted to power in the upcoming Assembly elections, the party would provide free education up to the graduation level, create government jobs for youth and offer a 75 per cent subsidy for self-employment ventures. He also announced a special package for the Kandi area, the establishment of industries with 75 per cent reservation for local youth and district-level skill development programmes in collaboration with leading companies.

Speaking to the media, Badal criticised the law and order situation, alleging that the state government was failing to curb crime. He also made sharp remarks against CM Bhagwant Mann.

Addressing the gathering, Daljit Singh Cheema alleged that incidents of disrespect towards BR Ambedkar and grenade attacks in cities like Chandigarh and Amritsar reflected the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab. He termed it a failure of the present government and warned that the state would be burdened with massive debt by the end of its tenure.

SAD vows to transform Kandi area

Addressing the rally, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal announced the SAD would establish a Kandi Area Development Ministry after forming government in the state. “The ministry will focus on developing the Kandi region and establishing government tubewells, drip irrigation and underground pipe facilities to farmers”.