*Clearing Arvind Kejriwal in excise policy case exposes conspiracy by PM Modi & Amit Shah to target AAP: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Court’s verdict discharging case against Arvind Kejriwal exposes misuse of central agencies by Union Govt: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Historic day for Indian politics as truth triumphs: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP jailed AAP’s entire decision-making team to win Delhi polls, but justice has prevailed: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*India needs engine of patriotism, not double or triple engine politics built on division: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
CHANDIGARH, 27th February 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that the discharge of charges against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, senior AAP leader and Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia, and others in the excise policy case by the court has vindicated the party’s consistent stand that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and other central agencies have been reduced to mere puppets in the hands of the Union government to target political rivals.
In a video message, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is a historic day in the politics of the country because the court has acquitted Arvind Kejriwal and 23 others who were wrongly booked by the CBI. The case against Arvind Kejriwal and others was a desperate attempt by the Union government to stop the Aam Aadmi Party, which was spreading its wings across the country through its agenda of good work. The order of the court is a testament to the fact that the dark night, however long it is, does end and the triumph of light is there.”
Thanking the people who prayed for Arvind Kejriwal and the party, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The prayers of the common people have done wonders and these honest leaders have been acquitted. The order of the court has put a serious question mark on the working of the CBI, which is acting like a puppet in the hands of its masters. It has exposed the blatant misuse of the central agencies by those in power at the Centre to muzzle the voice of democracy.”
Referring to the political developments in Delhi, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In order to merely win the elections in Delhi, the entire decision-making team of the Aam Aadmi Party was put behind bars by the BJP-led Union government. Today’s decision of the court has proved that Arvind Kejriwal is an honest man who rules the hearts of people because he speaks the truth. Every volunteer of the National Convenor of AAP is in the field of politics just to serve the people, as they were already earning handsome money in their respective fields.”
Taking on traditional political parties, Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The traditional parties are envious of the Aam Aadmi Party because we have set the agenda of the welfare of the common man. Earlier, the Congress and the BJP used to play friendly matches by enjoying power on a rotation basis and securing the interests of each other during their days in power. They used to play musical chairs in power and waited for their turns to plunder the people and the country.”
He further affirmed, “This dirty play was stopped when the Aam Aadmi Party assumed centre stage in the politics of the country, but these parties do not want this to happen. Anyone who raises a voice against corruption and their nasty tantrums faces their wrath and is put behind bars without any reason. The benefactors of corruption, who have deep roots everywhere, target honest people and slap false cases against them.”
Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is a move to hijack democracy by creating their own database of votes instead of seeking votes from people. Instead of seeking votes from the masses by folding hands before them, the Union government has devised this strategy where the same voters are used to manipulate the victory of their party in any state. It is fatal for the country, its people and even democracy. The forefathers of the Indian freedom struggle must have been peeved over it.”
Issuing a direct challenge to PMModi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is alright if you want to rule, but for that you should win the hearts of the people by your work and not through such tactics. Instead of improving education, roads, power, health sector, employment and other sectors in the country, the BJP is pursuing its agenda of hate and divisiveness. These democratically elected dictators use dissent and lure among their political rivals to freeze election symbols and then manipulate the polls.”
Continuing his attack, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Every patriot wants the country to be number one and not witness the manipulations in which the Modi-Shah duo is indulging. Every honest countryman objects to the manner in which the country is being run these days. They should stop dividing the country on sectarian lines for their vested political interests, as it is not in the favour of the nation.”
Drawing an analogy, Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “A bouquet has a variety of flowers that fascinate people and they love to see it. The variety of flowers soothes the eyes of everyone and people throng to see them, but if there is only one type of flower it creates monotony. In the same manner, harmonious and peaceful co-existence of every religion in society is important for the progress of the country.”
Praising the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Arvind Kejriwal is a man of action who transformed Delhi with sheer hard work and dedication. When the Aam Aadmi Party government assumed power in Delhi, the annual budget was ₹30,000 crore, and the last budget under it was ₹66,000 crore. Every single penny was spent judiciously on providing free power, world-class schools, Mohalla Clinics and other facilities to the people.”
Striking an emotional note, Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “Arvind Kejriwal cried for the country as its condition is getting worse with every passing day. Such poor treatment of an honest man is not desirable. India today needs only an engine of patriotism to steer it out of the several prevailing maladies. Those in power are promoting double engine or triple engine governments in the country, which are not needed.”
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*Important meeting held to strengthen food and nutrition security — Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Discussion on providing food grains to eligible institutions and pensions to senior citizens — Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Upgradation of Anganwadi centres and Nutrition Gardens to gain momentum — Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Beneficiary-centric approach to ensure protection of food rights — Dr. Baljit Kaur*
Chandigarh, February 27:On the initiative of the Punjab State Food Commission, an important meeting was held under the chairpersonship of Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur. The objective of the meeting was to further strengthen the effective implementation of schemes related to food security, nutrition and social welfare.
The meeting was attended by a delegation led by Chairman of the Punjab State Food Commission, Sh. Bal Mukand Sharma, along with Members Sh. Vijay Dutt and Sh. Chetan Parkash Dhaliwal. Secretary, Social Security Department, Sh. Gurkirat Kripal Singh, IAS, and Director Ms. Sheena Aggarwal,IAS were also specially present.
During the meeting, Dr. Baljit Kaur held detailed discussions on issues related to food security and nutrition and said that under the government’s food security scheme, eligible institutions must be ensured the supply of 15 kilograms of food grains per person per month at subsidised rates. This facility should be continuously extended to Pingalwara institutions, old age homes, shelter homes, recognised welfare institutions, hostels for Scheduled Caste girl students and schools for children with special needs.
The meeting also witnessed serious deliberations under the leadership of Dr. Baljit Kaur on providing old-age pension to eligible senior citizens residing in old age homes, and extending the benefits of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to residents of non-recognised institutions, including Pingalwara.
Raising the issue of repair and construction of Anganwadi centres that are in need of upgradation, Chairman Sh. Bal Mukand Sharma emphasised the requirement for timely intervention. In response, the Minister stressed the need for better inter-departmental coordination to ensure effective and timely utilisation of available funds in public interest.
Discussions were also held on developing kitchen gardens and herbal gardens under the Nutrition Garden scheme, providing regular training to Anganwadi workers, and supplying mobile phones to enhance transparency and efficiency in their functioning.
On the occasion, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is fully committed to pro-people welfare policies and that ensuring transparent, timely and effective delivery of government schemes to every eligible beneficiary remains the government’s top priority.
Terming the meeting as positive and constructive, Dr. Baljit Kaur assured that all suggestions put forward by the Commission would be examined seriously and implemented in a phased manner, and that all necessary steps would be taken in public interest.
Senior officer Sh Kamal Kumar Garg IAS from the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, GM Sh. Varinder Brar, In-charge of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme and senior officer of the Social Security Department were also present at the meeting.
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*Punjab Breaks Silence: Bhagwant Mann Govt Delivers Free Cochlear Implants Across All State Medical Colleges*
*Mukhya Mantri Sarvan Ashirwad Yojana, ‘Sunan Da Haq Sabda’, ensures 100% free cochlear implants for every eligible child in Punjab*
*Advanced medical care must reach every child irrespective of financial background, cochlear implant surgeries now available free across all Govt Medical Colleges: Balbir Singh*
CHANDIGARH, February 27:In a landmark intervention that redefines public healthcare delivery in the country, the Government of Punjab under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has operationalized high-end cochlear implant surgeries completely free of cost across its tertiary care network. What was once an unaffordable medical procedure reserved largely for the privileged is now a guaranteed right for children across Punjab.
Following a successful procedure at Government Medical College, Amritsar, the Bhagwant Mann Government has established a robust four-node surgical framework to systematically eliminate childhood deafness. Cochlear implant surgeries are now fully operational at Government Medical College & Hospital, Amritsar; Government Medical College & Hospital, Patiala; Government Medical College & Hospital, Faridkot; and Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Government Medical College & Hospital, SAS Nagar. This statewide institutional network ensures that access to advanced hearing restoration is no longer geographically restricted.
*Breaking the Financial Barrier*
Cochlear implants are among the most expensive medical interventions available in modern healthcare. In the private sector, the procedure typically costs between ₹6,00,000 and ₹10,00,000 per ear. For most families, this expense translates into catastrophic healthcare debt or the heartbreaking decision to forgo treatment altogether.
The Bhagwant Mann Government has dismantled this financial barrier entirely. Under its initiative, the implant device, surgery, hospitalization, and post-operative rehabilitation are being provided completely free of cost. Families are no longer forced to mortgage their future to secure their child’s ability to hear and speak. The State’s intervention represents full financial protection, shielding households from crippling expenditure while restoring dignity and opportunity to affected children.
*Addressing a Silent Crisis*
Hearing impairment remains one of India’s most under-recognized public health challenges. Approximately 6.3% of the Indian population suffers from significant hearing loss. Nearly 5 out of every 1,000 newborns in India are born with profound hearing loss, a rate significantly higher than the global average. Additionally, an estimated 5% of students have undiagnosed hearing issues, often mislabeled as slow learners or under-performers.
These figures reveal a crisis that is not only medical but deeply social and educational. Children with untreated hearing loss frequently face stigma, exclusion, and lost developmental potential. By institutionalizing free cochlear implant services, Punjab has directly confronted this silent epidemic.
*The Golden Window: Acting Within Time*
Medical science is unequivocal about the importance of early intervention. The brain’s plasticity for language development is highest between 0 to 3 years of age. This period is the golden window for cochlear implantation, during which children can develop speech and language at par with normal-hearing children.
Between the ages of 3 to 5 years, surgery still offers substantial benefit but requires intensive Auditory-Verbal Therapy to compensate for lost developmental time. Beyond this stage, effectiveness declines sharply and surgery becomes ineffective.
The consequences of delay are profound. Without timely intervention, children face permanent speech disability, social isolation, limited educational opportunities, and lifelong dependency. A single well-timed surgical procedure can prevent decades of marginalization. By expanding access across all Government Medical Colleges, the Punjab Government has ensured that the golden window is not missed due to financial hardship or lack of infrastructure.
*Punjab Leading the Way After National Scheme Closure*
When the Government of India’s cochlear implant scheme was closed in November 2023, access to this life-changing intervention became uncertain for countless children. At that critical juncture, the Punjab Government acted decisively by launching the Mukhya Mantri Sarvan Ashirwad Yojana, “Sunan Da Haq Sabda”.
Under this initiative, Punjab provides 100% state-funded cochlear implant surgeries completely free of cost for resident children. The State bears the entire cost, including the implant device, surgery, and hospitalization, while strengthening Government Medical Colleges to deliver advanced, specialized care with the highest standards . This proactive response ensured continuity of care and positioned Punjab as a national leader in equitable tertiary healthcare.
*A Vision for Inclusive Healthcare*
Punjab’s Health Minister Balbir Singh has reiterated that the Bhagwant Mann Government is committed to building an inclusive healthcare system where advanced medical care is accessible to every child, irrespective of financial background. “With this vision, the Bhagwant Mann Government has launched the Mukhya Mantri Sarvan Ashirwad Yojana, ‘Sunan Da Haq Sabda’, ensuring that no child is deprived of hearing due to economic constraints. Under this initiative, the Government is providing 100% free cochlear implant surgeries, bearing the entire cost including the implant device, surgery, and hospitalization.”
The Punjab Health Minister further informed, “Cochlear implant surgeries have commenced in Government Medical Colleges and are now available in all four Government Medical Colleges of Punjab, completely free of cost, marking a significant step toward equitable, specialized, and compassionate healthcare for all.”
This initiative is not merely a medical program; it is a structural correction in public health governance. By transforming a high-cost, high-skill intervention into a universal public service, the Bhagwant Mann Government has demonstrated that advanced healthcare can be both accessible and equitable. Punjab has moved beyond policy announcements to institutional execution, ensuring that no child’s future is limited by silence.
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*KEEMATI BHAGAT ASSUMES CHARGE AS VICE CHAIRMAN OF PUNJAB GAU SEWA COMMISSION IN PRESENCE OF CABINET MINISTER MOHINDER BHAGAT*
*Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali), February 27:*Sh. Keemati Bhagat on Friday assumed charge as Vice Chairman of the Punjab Gau Sewa Commission in the presence of Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat at Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar.
Family members, supporters, saints and office bearers of various Gau Sewa committees attended the ceremony in large numbers and extended their greetings on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering after taking charge, Sh. Bhagat said he would work with dedication to strengthen cow protection and welfare measures across Punjab. "Focused efforts would be made to ensure proper care of destitute and stray cows", said Sh. Keemati Bhagat, adding that to prevent loss of life and property caused by stray animals, coordination would be undertaken with all Deputy Commissioners and officials of the Animal Husbandry Department so that such animals could be rehabilitated in cow shelters across the state.
Speaking at the function, Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat congratulated the newly appointed Vice Chairman and expressed confidence that he would discharge his responsibilities with commitment and ensure effective implementation of welfare initiatives for stray cows.
Prominent amongst others who were present included Baljinder Singh Bunty, Vice Chairman Forest Department; Mahant Ravi Kant, Chairman Hindu Welfare Board; Satish Kumar, National President Gau Raksha Dal; Amrit Bhagat, President Satguru Kabir Sena Punjab; Ramesh Bhagat, Dr Rajesh Narang CEO Punjab Gau Sewa Commission; Dr Preeti Singh Deputy CEO; Dr. Sham Singh Joint Director Animal Husbandry Department and Veterinary Officer Dr. Ujwal Gupta.
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*Hon’ble Court’s Judgment Acquitting Arvind Kejriwal in Excise Policy Case a Victory of Truth and Democracy: Mohinder Bhagat*
*Kejriwal Remained Committed to Transparent Governance and Public Welfare Despite Political* Challenges
Chandigarh, February 27, 2026:Punjab Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat termed the recent judgment of the Hon’ble Court in the excise policy case as a victory of truth and democratic values. He said that the acquittal of AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and other accused has proved that the allegations levelled against them were false and baseless.
Mr. Bhagat stated that the court’s decision has further strengthened the faith of the common people in the judiciary and reaffirmed that ultimately truth and justice prevail. He said several attempts were made to tarnish the image of a democratically elected leadership, but the truth has now emerged through due judicial process.
Describing Mr. Arvind Kejriwal as a committed and visionary leader, Mr. Bhagat said that despite political challenges, he has remained dedicated to transparent governance and public welfare. He added that the Hon’ble Court’s decision will further reinforce democratic traditions in the country and highlight the importance of truth and justice.
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*"TRUTH TRUMPS DIRTY POLITICS: HARJOT BAINS HAILS KEJRIWAL'S DISCHARGE AS VICTORY FOR DEMOCRACY"*
*•Will now work even harder for our state, our region, and our nation, says Bains*
Chandigarh, February 27:–Welcoming the Delhi Special CBI Court's verdict discharging Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Sh. Arvind Kejriwal, AAP Punjab Incharge Mr Manish Sisodia, and 21 others, Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains hailed the verdict as a monumental victory for truth and the order is a testament to the resilience of the Indian Constitution and the independent judiciary.
In a video message, S. Harjot Bains stated, "One may try as hard as they want, but at the end, truth always wins. All religious scriptures teach us this, and today we have received proof of it when the Special CBI Court in Delhi discharged Arvind Kejriwal ji, Manish Sisodia ji, and 21 others.”
He further emphasised the significance of the court's strong remarks, highlighting that the judiciary found the investigation to be completely lacking in substance. He noted that the court explicitly stated there wasn't enough evidence to proceed with a trial, implying the case was baseless. S. Bains further pointed out the court's observation that the Investigation Officers had gone to great lengths to fabricate the case, and the court has recommended disciplinary action against those responsible for these wrongdoings. He described this as a major win not just for the discharged leaders, but for truth and democracy.
He expressed gratitude towards the Almighty, and bowed to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, while crediting India's Constitution for empowering judiciary to uphold justice. "The constitution's strength foils attempts to suppress truth. It is the strength of our Constitution that empowers the judiciary to deliver justice."
S. Harjot Singh Bains asserted that the verdict will inject a new energy into the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This energy will give further impetus to serve the common people—be it through improving government schools, enhancing medical and health facilities, or the ongoing work in Punjab.
Highlighting the developmental agenda in Punjab under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Education Minister S. Bains listed the government's achievements including free and 24-hour electricity for domestic use, day time electricity supply for Agriculture sector, delivering canal water to every field and offering every Punjabi free treatment up to Rs. 10 lakh—these are the works that the Aam Aadmi Party led government is doing today. The love that CM Mann is receiving from across the state makes me believe that the record-breaking mandate of 2022 will be shattered in 2027. We will now work even harder for our state, our region, and our nation.”
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*High Demand for PSIEC Industrial Plots; E-auction draws bids worth ₹163.50 crore against base value of ₹72.50 crore, 77 plots allotted across Punjab: Sanjeev Arora*
*Strong investor response reflects renewed confidence in Punjab’s industrial policies & governance framework: Sanjeev Arora*
*Further phases of allotment & infrastructure development to meet rising industrial demand: Sanjeev Arora*
CHANDIGARH, 27th February 2026:The e-auction conducted by the Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation for allotment of industrial plots in various Industrial Focal Points across Punjab has concluded with an overwhelming response from entrepreneurs and investors, Punjab Industries, Commerce and Investment Promotion Minister Sanjeev Arora said on Tuesday, terming it a strong endorsement of the Bhagwant Mann Government’s pro-industry approach.
Industries and Commerce Minister Sanjeev Arora said, “We are happy to announce that 77 plots have been successfully allotted. The cumulative base value of these plots was approximately ₹72.50 crore, whereas the final bids received amounted to an impressive ₹163.50 crore, reflecting more than double appreciation over the reserve price.”
The Minister stated that the extraordinary response clearly demonstrates the robust demand for industrial land, renewed investor confidence, and the growing attractiveness of Punjab as a preferred investment destination. “The significant price realization underscores the strategic location, infrastructure readiness, and immense development potential of the Industrial Focal Points,” he added.
Minister Sanjeev Arora further stated, “The successful completion of the e-auction with such outstanding results highlights strengthened investor confidence in the State’s industrial policies and governance framework. It has ensured substantial revenue generation, which will further support infrastructure augmentation and industrial ecosystem development. It also reflects a strong and positive market sentiment, indicating accelerated industrial and economic growth in the State.”
Referring to the broader vision behind Punjab’s industrial push, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora said, “Under the visionary leadership of AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, investors have demonstrated strong confidence in the State’s progressive industrial policies.”
He reiterated that the Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring transparency in allotment processes, facilitating ease of doing business, attracting fresh investments, and fostering sustainable industrial growth across Punjab. “Further phases of allotment and development initiatives will continue to be undertaken to meet the increasing demand from the industrial sector,” he added.
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PHASE-I OF CENSUS 2027 TO BEGIN IN PUNJAB FROM MAY 15; SELF-ENUMERATION FROM APRIL 30
STATE LEVEL CONFERENCE ON CENSUS 2027 HELD IN PUNJAB UNDER THE CHAIRMANSHIP OF CS KAP SINHA
CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 27:A One-Day State Level Conference for Deputy Commissioners and Municipal Corporation Commissioners on Census 2027 – Phase I (House Listing Operations) was successfully convened today at Hotel Mount View, Chandigarh.
The Conference was jointly hosted by the Department of Local Government, Punjab and the Directorate of Census Operations, Punjab under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary, Punjab, Sh. KAP Sinha.
The Conference aimed at orienting field-level administrative heads for the upcoming Phase I of Census 2027, i.e., House Listing and Housing Census, scheduled to be conducted in Punjab from May 15, 2026 to June 13, 2026. The option of Self-Enumeration will also be available to the public from April 30, 2026 to May 14, 2026, prior to the commencement of House Listing Operations. Phase II of Census 2027 will be conducted in February 2027.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Secretary Sh. KAP Sinha, underscored the national importance of the Census as the cornerstone of evidence-based governance, welfare planning, and equitable resource distribution. Emphasizing transparency, data quality, and strict adherence to timelines, he called upon all officers to ensure meticulous planning and seamless inter-departmental coordination. He stressed that Census 2027 must set new benchmarks in accuracy, digital execution, and administrative discipline.
On the occasion, Chief Secretary also unveiled the Punjabi Logo of Census 2027. He also unveiled the latest updated Revenue Maps (Districts and Tehsils) and Urban Local Bodies Maps of Punjab, prepared for Census purposes.
Meanwhile, Director, Census Operations, Punjab, Dr. Navjot Khosa apprised the officers of the roadmap and strategic framework for Census 2027. She elaborated upon the statutory mandate under the Census Act, 1948 and the Census Rules, 1990, and emphasized strict adherence to uniform national standards, definitions, and procedures.
She emphasized that Phase I would serve as the foundation for Phase II and that the quality, completeness, and accuracy achieved during House Listing Operations would determine the overall success of the Census exercise.
Deputy Commissioners and Municipal Commissioners actively participated in the deliberations and shared district-level preparedness, logistical arrangements, training plans, rural and urban coverage strategies, and coordination mechanisms with local bodies.
Constructive discussions were also held on strengthening monitoring systems, ensuring timely resource mobilization, leveraging central assistance, and maintaining uniformity in implementation across districts.
The Conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Secretary, Local Government, Punjab, Sh. Manjit Singh Brar, who is also the State Nodal Officer for Census.
Reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to conducting a transparent, inclusive, accurate, and technology-driven Census within the prescribed timelines, all officers resolved to discharge their responsibilities with professional integrity, legal compliance, and administrative efficiency to ensure the successful conduct of Census 2027.
Prominent among those present were Secretary, Local Government, Punjab, Sh. Manjit Singh Brar, Director, Census Operations, Punjab, Dr. Navjot Khosa, Director, Local Government, Punjab, Sh. Kulwant Singh, Divisional Commissioners; all Deputy Commissioners; and Municipal Commissioners across the State.
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*Court’s verdict discharging cases against Arvind Kejriwal in excise policy case reaffirms constitutional morality & rule of law: Kultar Singh Sandhwan*
*Discharge of case against all 23 accused including Manish Sisodia shows allegations failed judicial scrutiny: Kultar Singh Sandhwan*
*Arvind Kejriwal emerges vindicated; truth prevails over coercion in constitutional democracy: Kultar Singh Sandhwan*
*Arvind Kejriwal is staunchly honest & visionary leader as false allegations levelled against him but at last truth prevailed: Kultar Singh Sandhwan*
CHANDIGARH, 27th February 2026:Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan said that the recent judgment of the Court in the excise policy case marks a powerful reaffirmation of constitutional morality and the rule of law. He stated that the discharge of cases against all 23 accused, including former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, unequivocally demonstrates that the allegations amplified in the political arena failed to withstand judicial scrutiny.
Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan noted, “When the name of a democratically elected Chief Minister is invoked without substantive evidence, and investigative agencies are unable to establish even a prima facie case, it raises profound concerns about institutional propriety and due process. The Court’s direction for departmental action against the Investigating Officer further underscores the primacy of accountability within our constitutional framework.”
Highlighting the broader political and moral implications of the verdict, Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan said, “Arvind Kejriwal emerges not merely acquitted, but vindicated. A leader shaped by grassroots conviction, he has consistently embodied the aspirations of the common citizen. A modern-day visionary, he represents governance for the people, by the people, rooted in transparency, public service, and participatory democracy.”
Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan said, “This verdict reinforces the perception that he was subjected to vendetta politics, yet it also affirms a larger truth: in a constitutional democracy, truth prevails over coercion, and integrity withstands intimidation. Arvind Kejriwal’s journey through adversity reflects resilience, moral courage, and unwavering commitment to the people he serves. Ultimately, democracy is strengthened when justice prevails, and this judgment stands as a testament to that enduring principle.”
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Three-day Rangla Punjab Utsav begins with full pomp and show in Amritsar
Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO inaugurates cultural extravaganza
Punjabi culture one of the richest and most vibrant in the world - Harbhajan Singh ETO
State Government committed to promoting Punjab's cultural heritage, lifestyle and food at the global level
Vibrant colors of colorful Punjab can be seen in Rangla Punjab Utsav
Craft bazaar, exhibition & food courts set up in gala event
Manmohan Wars, Jayji B, Jaspinder Narula, Kulwinder Billa, Harjit Harman, Kaur B, Virasat Sandhu, Bani Sandhu & Meet Kaur to enthrall people on all three days
Drone show to be held on the evening of February 28 and March 1
Entry of general public completely free
Chandigarh/Amritsar, February 27 -The three-day Rangla Punjab Utsav organized by the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of the Punjab Government at Ranjit Avenue in Amritsar began today.
The mega event was inaugurated by the PWD Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO.
The purpose of this three-day Rangla Punjab Utsav is to promote the cultural heritage, lifestyle and food of Punjab at the global level, said Mr. ETO adding that every color of the colorful Punjab is being seen in this cultural extravaganza. He said that Punjabi culture is one of the richest and vibrant cultures in the world, which is known for its unique lifestyle, food, folk dances (Bhangra-Giddha), traditional arts, dialects and hospitality, in the country and abroad.
Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that special efforts are being made by the state government led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to preserve and promote the rich heritage of the state. He said that the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs is organizing such programs in different parts of the state so that the young generation can be connected with the rich traditions of Punjab heritage. He appealed to the people to come to this Rangla Punjab Utsav along with their families and appreciate the beautiful colors of the colorful Punjab.
On this occasion, Director of the Tourism Department, Mr. Sanjeev Tiwari said that this Rangla Punjab Utsav, which started today at the Ranjit Avenue ground in Amritsar, will continue till the late evening of March 1, 2026. He said that the Rangla Punjab Utsav is dedicated to Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiyat and a beautiful glimpse of the cultural heritage, lifestyle and food of Punjab can be seen in it. He said that a beautiful craft market has been set up during the Rangla Punjab festival, where shopkeepers are selling traditional Punjabi and other goods. Apart from this, 30 stalls of different dishes have been set up in the food court during the festival. He said that special swings have been set up for the entertainment of children during the festival. Apart from this, various government departments are also setting up their stalls in the Rangla Punjab festival and providing information about the welfare schemes being run by the government.
Director Tourism Mr. Sanjeev Tiwari further said that on all three days of the Rangla Punjab festival, famous singers of Punjab will entertain the audience. Along with this, other forms of Punjabi culture like Giddha-Bhangra will also be performed.
He said that on the evening of the first day of Rangla Punjab Utsav on February 27, world famous folk singers Virasat Sandhu, Jaspinder Narula and Jayji B are performing their singing in the open arena. On the evening of the second day of the festival, singers Meet Kaur, Kaur B and singer Kulwinder Billa will perform. On the evening of the third and last day of Rangla Punjab Utsav, singers Harjit Harman, Bani Sandhu and Manmohan Waris will add color through their singing. He said that special arrangements have been made for the audience to sit in this open arena.
Director Tourism Mr. Sanjeev Tiwari said that there will be a drone show during Rangla Punjab Utsav on the evening of February 28 and March 1.
He said that the entry of the general public during Rangla Punjab Utsav is absolutely free. He appealed to all the pepole to attend the Rangla Punjab Utsav being held at Ranjit Avenue Ground in Amritsar and see and enjoy the beautiful glimpse of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiyat.
On this occasion, MLA of Amritsar East constituency Jeevanjot Kaur, MLA of Amritsar West constituency Dr. Jasbir Singh Sandhu, Chairman of PUNSUP Mr. Prabhbir Singh Brar, Chairman of District Planning Committee Gur Partap Singh Sandhu, Vice Chairman of Punjab State Industrial and Export Corporation Jaskaran Singh Bandesa, Director of Tourism Department Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Mr. Rohit Gupta, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Urban Development) Rupinder Pal Singh, SDM Alka Kalia, Gurmander Singh besides Cabinet Minister Sardar Harbhajan Singh ETO's wife Mrs. Suhinder Kaur, sister Mrs. Balwinder Kaur, District Tourism Officer Sukhman Singh, Public Relations Director of Guru Nanak Dev University Praveen Puri and other officials were also present.