*PM Modi, Punjab has never bowed before anyone & never will: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Punjab, land of Gurus, didn't bow even before Aurangzeb’s atrocities & will not bow before Modi either: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*End of this unholy alliance between ED & BJP will begin from Punjab itself: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Why are ED raids taking place only in states where BJP is not in power? CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Ever since strict law against beadbi was passed, frustrated BJP has been adopting new tactics every day to threaten & intimidate us: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*ED raids are being conducted at Sanjeev Arora’s residence for 3rd time in year; nothing was found earlier & nothing will be found now either: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*BJP is continuously misusing CBI, ED, Income Tax Department and Election Commission for its political gains: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Punjabis forced PM Modi to repeal 3 black farm laws; now he is taking revenge for it: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Modi Govt's objective behind conducting ED raids isn't to recover black money but to force leaders to join BJP: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Raids were conducted at Ashok Mittal’s premises, then he left AAP & joined BJP and was given Y-category security: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

SANGRUR; 9th May 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday tore into the BJP-led Central Government over repeated Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, asserting that Punjab would never surrender before “politics of intimidation and vendetta” being carried out through central agencies. Pointing out that ED had raided Sanjeev Arora’s residence three times within a year and twice within a month without recovering anything, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann questioned why such raids were being carried out only in states where the BJP was not in power.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the Modi Government’s real intention was not to recover black money but to pressure opposition leaders into joining the BJP, citing instances where leaders facing agency action later crossed over to the saffron party and received political patronage. Declaring that Punjab, the land of Gurus and martyrs, had not bowed even before Aurangzeb’s tyranny, the Chief Minister asserted that Punjab would never bow before Prime Minister Narendra Modi either and affirmed that the collapse of the BJP-ED nexus would begin from Punjab itself.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Income Tax Department and even constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission were no longer functioning independently and are instead being weaponised for political purposes against non-BJP ruled states, particularly Punjab.”

The Chief Minister stated that the BJP had converted these institutions into tools of political coercion to threaten leaders, businessmen and public representatives. “Instead of discharging their duties impartially, these institutions are now being used to settle political scores and destabilise democratically elected governments,” he said.

He said the BJP had adopted the same pattern across the country where raids are conducted not to expose corruption or recover black money, but to pressurise people politically. “The message from BJP is loud and clear: either join BJP or face harassment through raids and investigations,” he remarked.

Citing the recent case of Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said raids were conducted for two days at his residence, university and business establishments. “But the moment he joined BJP, the raids stopped and he was instead provided security cover by the Centre. What does this expose if not the political misuse of agencies?” he questioned.

He asserted that such pressure tactics would never succeed in Punjab. “We have faced hostile circumstances since our inception. Punjab has never bowed before intimidation and never will,” he said.

Referring to the ongoing ED action at the residence of Cabinet Minister and businessman Sanjeev Arora, the Chief Minister stated repeated raids had yielded nothing. “These politically motivated raids are only meant to create fear, build pressure and arm-twist political rivals,” he stated, while reiterating that Punjab would not succumb to such tactics.

Cautioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab is the sacred land of Gurus, saints and martyrs. This land did not bow before Aurangzeb’s atrocities and it will not bend before Modi either.” He added that the end of the “unethical alliance” between the ED and BJP would begin from Punjab itself.

The Chief Minister further questioned why ED raids are conducted primarily in Opposition-ruled states while BJP-ruled states remain untouched. He pointed out that since the AAP Government passed the strict anti-beadbi law, BJP had become rattled and had intensified its attempts to intimidate the state leadership.

“For the third time in a year, raids have been conducted at the residence of Sanjeev Arora. Nothing was found earlier and nothing will be found now,” he asserted.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjabis had compelled the Modi Government to repeal the three black farm laws and now the Centre was attempting to take revenge by harassing, defaming and targeting Punjabis. “The purpose of these ED raids is not recovery, but political pressure to make leaders join BJP,” he said.

The Chief Minister asserted that Punjab has a glorious legacy of resisting oppression and defending democratic values. “Pressure politics may work elsewhere, but Punjab will never bow before threats or coercion,” he added.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab has historically defeated tyrannical forces and its people know how to protect their rights and dignity even under adverse circumstances. He further stated that the Centre has continuously discriminated against Punjab on crucial issues including Chandigarh, Bhakra, river waters and Panjab University. “The Centre has also withheld Punjab’s rightful dues, including RDF funds and several other pending amounts worth thousands of crores, thereby jeopardising the development of Punjab,” he said.

The Chief Minister said it was unfortunate that despite Punjab’s unparalleled contribution towards national food security and border security, the state continued to be politically targeted. “Punjab feeds the nation by contributing massive quantities of wheat and rice to the national pool, while Punjabi youth continue to defend the country’s borders with unmatched courage and sacrifice,” he stated.

Strongly opposing divisive politics, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab’s social fabric was built on communal harmony, brotherhood and mutual respect. “Anything can grow on Punjab’s fertile land except hatred. Attempts to divide Hindus and Sikhs for political gains will never succeed here,” he asserted.

Taking a firm stand on the anti-beadbi law, the Chief Minister reiterated that the Punjab Government remained fully committed to protecting the sanctity and respect of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and all religious scriptures. He said the recently enacted anti-sacrilege law was introduced solely to ensure strict punishment for those attempting to hurt religious sentiments and disturb peace.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the anti-beadbi law had received overwhelming support from sangat across the world. He alleged that only “one particular family” was opposing the legislation because of its own involvement in past sacrilege incidents. “Those claiming that the Panth has rejected this law must explain why millions are supporting it,” he asserted, adding that certain vested political interests were trying to mislead people for narrow gains and create unnecessary confusion around the legislation.

Making his Government’s position clear, the Chief Minister asserted that the anti-beadbi law had already come into force after due constitutional process. “The Governor has granted assent to the Act. There is no question of withdrawing or rolling back this law,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the legislation was enacted after a long-standing public demand and there could be no compromise on protecting the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

The Chief Minister further pointed out that protests and demonstrations had continued for nearly one-and-a-half years demanding a stricter anti-sacrilege law. He noted that several Sikh intellectuals and scholars opposing the law today had themselves earlier demanded stringent legislation against sacrilege incidents.

He also recalled that in July 2007, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) had itself passed a resolution authorising the government to enact legislation for the protection and respect of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Questioning the Opposition’s changing stand, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asked how those who had earlier supported legislative intervention were now claiming that the government could not enact such a law. He noted that such leaders are trying to run a “parallel authority” and politicising a sensitive religious issue.

*Punjab will not repeal anti-beadbi law under pressure; attempts being made to divert attention from massive response to “Shukrana Yatra”: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

Reacting to statements threatening meetings and protests against the legislation, the Chief Minister said every democratic group had the right to hold meetings, but maintained firmly that the law would not be repealed under any pressure.

Responding to questions on his ongoing “Shukrana Yatra”, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann alleged that ED raids, notices and controversies were deliberately being orchestrated alongside the yatra to divert media attention from the massive public support it was receiving across Punjab.

The Chief Minister also criticised the BJP’s “dictatorial mindset”, pointing out that the BJP wants to control every sphere of public life, from institutions to culture and public discourse. He warned against any attempt to push Punjab towards fear or instability and asserted that Punjabis would give a united and democratic response to such politics.

Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The BJP-led Central Government is undermining the constitutional framework of the country. The BJP is continuously misusing institutions like the CBI, ED, Income Tax Department and Election Commission for its political interests.”

“Why are ED raids being conducted only in those states where the BJP is not in power? This is a direct murder of democracy. Politics of hatred and discrimination is being carried out against Punjabis. New tactics are being used every day to intimidate and threaten us. I want to make one thing absolutely clear: Punjab is the land of Gurus and saints. In this fertile soil, every seed can grow, but the seed of hatred can never take root here,” he added.

“In reality, the BJP has become completely rattled after the passage of the strict law against sacrilege. Stop playing such games with the people of Punjab. This dictatorial attitude will not work here. We will continue to serve the people with complete honesty. Neither will we bow, nor will we stop,” the post concluded.

=============================

*Canal Water Reaches Tail-End Villages After Decades, almost 200% Jump in Irrigated Area Under Ropar Canal Network: Barinder Kumar Goyal*

*From Jhaner to Panjgrayian, Kanganwal to Bhudan, Dakha to Dhatt and Barundi to Tungahedi, Ropar Canal Network Revival Brings Water to Last Mile, Strengthens Farming*

*Chandigarh; May 9:*In a significant step towards strengthening Punjab’s irrigation infrastructure, canal water from the Ropar canal network has now reached even the tail end villages, marking a transformational shift for farmers who had long depended on erratic groundwater. In 2025-26, the irrigated area under the Ropar Canal Network has expanded from 29,488 acres to 85,447 acres. Another 3,882 acres is being added. This will take the total area to 89,329 acres, recording a 200% increase, informed Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal.

When the AAP government assumed office in 2022 under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, canal water usage in Punjab stood at a modest 26.5%. Recognising the urgency of sustainable water management, the government initiated large scale cleaning, repair and revival of long neglected canals, distributaries and water courses.

He said that these efforts are now delivering visible results. The state has already achieved nearly 78% of its targeted canal irrigation coverage, with a clear focus on ensuring that canal water reaches every farmer during the paddy sowing season. Villages such as Rudka, Pandori, Jangpura, Dhatt, Dhaler Kalan, Nuthuheri, Mankheri, Sultanpur, Bhudan and Bhadrawan, Barundi, Rashin, Tungaheri, Kanganwal etc. under the districts Ludhiana and Malerkotla region have witnessed canal water reaching their fields after nearly four decades, bringing renewed hope and improved agricultural productivity.

The Cabinet Minister said that a key driver of this transformation has been the revival and expansion of LIFT irrigation schemes. Infrastructure including risers and storage tanks has been completed in villages such as Samlah, Paharpur, Lakher and Midhwan, extending irrigation to previously uncovered areas. In the Sri Anandpur Sahib belt, Lift irrigation initiatives are set to bring an additional 3,882 acres under irrigation.

Another major achievement has been the restoration of long-defunct Lift irrigation systems that had remained non-functional for over a decade. Through coordinated efforts between the government and farmers, old pipelines, pumps and control panels have been repaired or replaced, while pump houses have been restored. Farmers have also actively contributed by upgrading field-level infrastructure, he added.

As a result, nearly 1,539 acres of additional land under Nangal tehsil of Ropar District have been brought under irrigation through these revived systems. Encouraged by the long-term benefits of canal water, farmers have shown strong support by adopting improved water distribution practices.

The impact of these efforts goes beyond numbers. It reflects a decisive shift towards sustainable agriculture, reduced dependence on groundwater and enhanced farm productivity. By ensuring that canal water reaches even the remotest fields, the Punjab Government is not only revitalising infrastructure but also restoring confidence among farmers.

This initiative aligns with a broader vision to make the lives of Punjab’s farmers and citizens more secure, prosperous and sustainable, while safeguarding the state’s most vital resource, water.

===========================================

*900+ Staff Deployed for Daily Pilgrimage of 1100+ Senior Citizens Under Bhagwant Mann Govt's Mukh Mantri Teerth Yatra Yojana*

*Lifelong wishes turn into reality as thousands experience dignified and comfortable journeys: Hardeep Singh Mundian*

*Chandigarh; May 9:*Under the soft morning sun, 68-year-old Bibi Harbans Kaur sat quietly on the bus, holding a small bag in her hands. There was a gentle moisture in her eyes and a calm radiance on her face, as though a dream she had carried for years was finally within reach. “I always felt this day was not written in my destiny,” she said with a faint smile.

Her story is not hers alone; it echoes the silent wishes of thousands of elderly citizens across Punjab. Today, those long-held aspirations are being realised through the Mukh Mantri Teerth Yatra Yojana.

Launched under the leadership of Bhagwant Singh Mann, the initiative reflects the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring a dignified, comfortable and spiritually enriching journey for senior citizens. With careful planning and large-scale deployment of resources, the scheme is steadily setting new standards in public service delivery.

Divulging further details, Punjab Revenue Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian said that every day, more than 1,100 pilgrims aged 50 years or above undertake the journey under the scheme. To ensure their comfort, safety and wellbeing throughout, over 900 staff members are deployed, providing continuous assistance and on-ground support at every stage.

Punjab, a land deeply rooted in spiritual heritage, carries a strong sense of faith in every household. For many elderly citizens, visiting sacred places such as the Golden Temple was once a distant dream, often held back by financial constraints or health concerns. The scheme has changed that reality, he added.

Pilgrims under the scheme are taken on free journeys to prominent religious and historical destinations. The itinerary includes visits to Durgiana Temple and Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal, along with key heritage sites such as Jallianwala Bagh and the Partition Museum, offering a meaningful blend of spirituality and history.

He said that the three-day, two-night journey is designed to be seamless and comfortable. The government provides air-conditioned buses and trains, organised accommodation, hygienic meals and essential items such as bedsheets and blankets, along with emergency medical facilities, all free of cost. Each arrangement is made with a clear focus on the ease and dignity of elderly travellers.

In a short span, the initiative has made a significant impact, the Cabinet Minister said, adding that a fleet of nearly 100 buses facilitates daily travel for around 1,100 pilgrims and around 1,10,000 senior citizens have already benefitted from the scheme.

For many, this initiative has become more than just a journey. It is the fulfilment of a lifelong wish. What once felt distant is now within reach, allowing thousands to experience, with dignity and comfort, moments they had long waited for, said Hardeep Singh Mundian.

=========================================

NATIONAL LOK ADALAT ORGANIZED ACROSS PUNJAB

399 LOK ADALAT BENCHES CONSTITUTED

OVER 4.5 LAKH CASES SETTLED; AWARDS OF RS.917.55 CRORE PASSED

LOK ADALAT - A PATHWAY TO SPEEDY AND AMICABLE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Chandigarh, May 9:Punjab State Legal Services Authority successfully organized the 1st National Lok Adalat of the year 2026 today across the State of Punjab under the patronage of Hon'ble Mr. Justice Sheel Nagu, Chief Justice, Punjab & Haryana High Court and under visionary leadership of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court and Executive Chairman, Punjab State Legal Services Authority.

Held under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority, the mega initiative aimed at facilitating speedy, cost-effective and amicable settlement of disputes, thereby advancing access to justice in line with Article 39-A of the Constitution of India.

The Lok Adalat recorded active participation from litigants, judicial officers, advocates and allied stakeholders. A broad range of cases including civil, matrimonial, property, motor accident claims, banking, insurance and other compoundable matters were taken up and settled through conciliation and mutual consent. The exercise brought instant relief to litigants and also contributed significantly to the reduction of pendency of cases in courts.

A total of 399 Lok Adalat Benches were constituted across all Districts and Sub-Divisions of the State. As many as 5,25,137 cases were taken up, out of which 4,68,633 cases were settled amicably and awards amounting to Rs.917.55 cr. were passed.

The National Lok Adalat enabled thousands of litigants across Punjab to resolve disputes within a short span. Several long-pending matters, including disputes spanning over a decade, were successfully settled, leading to substantial decongestion of court dockets.

The Courts witnessed an overwhelming response from Banking Institutions, Insurance Companies, Government Departments, and the general public, reflecting the growing faith in the Lok Adalat mechanism.

On this occasion, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, Executive Chairman, Punjab State Legal Services Authority, appreciated the dedicated efforts of Judicial Officers, District Legal Services Authorities and volunteers across the State, whose collective commitment ensured the successful conduct of this mega event.

Punjab State Legal Services Authority also extends its deep gratitude to the Hon’ble High Court of Punjab and Haryana, all District Legal Services Authorities, the State Judiciary, Members of the Bar, Police Authorities and the Civil Administration for their invaluable support and cooperation.

=========================================