Punjab Government: A Government Committed to the Welfare of Workers - Tarunpreet Singh Sond
- Several initiatives by Punjab Govt for construction & building workers welfare
- 1.3 lakh construction workers and their families covered under 5 lakh rupees Mukh Mantri Sehat Bima Yojana
- Now workers can get surgeries, operations, etc for free even in private hospitals
- 80,000 labour and other welfare scheme cards issued in just 4 months
- Labour cards and schemes pendency reduced by 75% within 4 months
- Punjab ushering new era of workers' welfare
Chandigarh, May 1:Punjab’s Labour Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, extended warm greetings to all workers on the occasion of Labour Day. Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, he highlighted that the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is committed to the welfare of workers and has taken several significant initiatives to enhance their quality of life.
He informed that under the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, over Rs 90 crore was disbursed to more than 41,000 registered workers through various schemes in the last financial year. This includes Rs 45 crore stipend scheme for workers' children, Rs 28 crore as ex-gratia assistance, Rs 11 crore for health insurance and surgeries, and over Rs 85 lakh under the Balri Tohfa Scheme. Additionally, the Labour Welfare Board disbursed Rs 17.15 crore to 6,737 beneficiaries during the same period.
The Minister noted that from January to April 2025, around 80,000 pending applications related to labour cards and welfare schemes were resolved. The backlog, which previously stood at 1.1 lakh, has now been brought down to 30,000.
Under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Bima Yojana, 1.3 lakh construction workers and their families have been covered, providing Rs. 5 lakh health insurance per family for critical healthcare services such as cardiac care, cancer treatment, neuro surgery, orthopedic surgeries and dialysis and kidney care.
Sond stated that in the financial year 2024–25, a record Rs 287 crore has been collected as labour cess, the highest in the past four years. Comparatively, Rs 203.94 crore was collected in 2021–22, Rs 208.92 crore in 2022–23, and Rs 180 crore in 2023–24.
The Minister further mentioned that several schemes have been simplified to ensure ease of access for workers. In the Shagun Scheme of the Punjab Building Workers Welfare Board, the earlier requirement of a marriage certificate issued by a Tehsildar has been removed. Now, a certificate from the religious institution where the marriage was solemnized, along with a self-declaration from both families, will suffice. Under this scheme, an amount of Rs 51,000 is provided. Similarly, maternity benefits of Rs 21,000 for female construction workers and Rs 5,000 for male workers are now provided upon submission of the child’s birth certificate only, removing the earlier requirement of a child’s Aadhaar card.
The Labour Minister also announced that in the Labour Welfare Board’s schemes, the condition of submitting a government marriage certificate has been removed. Instead, a certificate from the religious institution and a photograph of the ceremony will be accepted. Under this scheme, Rs 31,000 is provided. Additionally, the time frame for applying under the maternity benefit scheme has been extended from the previous three months before and after childbirth to a more flexible six months post-delivery.
Minister Sond highlighted that MNREGA workers who have completed over 90 days of work are being encouraged to register with the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board to avail all associated benefits. To facilitate this, Form No. 27, required during registration, has been simplified and is now available in Punjabi and Hindi.
In a further move to support workers' families, eligibility conditions for the stipend scheme for workers' children have been eased. Previously, a worker needed to be registered for at least two years with the Labour Welfare Board to apply for scholarships. This requirement has now been waived; any registered worker can now apply immediately for their child’s scholarship.
He further informed that the government has also reduced the processing time for scheme approvals. Previously, schemes required clearance from SDM Committees and Deputy Commissioners. Now, except for Ex-Gratia, Balri Rakshak, and Shagun Scheme, all other schemes no longer need such approvals. The number of approval stages has been reduced from 9 to just 7, shortening the benefit disbursement time from six months to only one month.
Tarunpreet Singh Sond made an appeal to all workers in Punjab involved in construction or manual labour who have worked for more than 90 days in a year to register with the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. Registration can be done at Seva Kendras or through the "Kirti Sahayak App" available on Google Play Store.
He also urged industrialists across Punjab to ensure their workers are registered with the Labour Welfare Board and are enabled to access the welfare schemes meant for their benefit.
=================================
Historic Disbursement of Rs. 242 Crore Under SC Scholarship by Punjab Government — Lauded by Government of India
Dr. Baljit Kaur Announces Major Relief for Students — Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal Reopened Till May 15
Chandigarh, May 1:In a landmark achievement towards ensuring timely financial assistance for Scheduled Caste (SC) students, the Punjab Government under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has successfully disbursed Rs. 242.01 crore as the state’s share for 2,22,764 students before March 31, 2025. This announcement was made by Punjab Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.
Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that for the first time in the state’s history, the state’s share under the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme has been distributed within the academic year itself. In recognition of this proactive and student-centric initiative, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, has also appreciated the Punjab Government for implementing the scheme in an efficient, transparent, and effective manner.
She further added that guided by the Aam Aadmi Party government's commitment to social equality and education for all, the Punjab Government is fully dedicated to the welfare and educational empowerment of Scheduled Caste students. In line with this vision, the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme is being implemented in a transparent, efficient, and student-friendly manner to enable students to pursue higher education without financial constraints.
The Minister informed that for the financial year 2024-25, the state had set a target to cover 2,60,000 students under this flagship scheme. Notably, a total of 2,59,685 applications were received through the Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal, out of which 2,36,575 applications have been successfully verified — the highest number of verifications achieved by the Punjab Government in the last five years.
Dr. Baljit Kaur also mentioned that the remaining verified applications numbering 13,814 will soon receive the state’s share of scholarship funds.
Additionally, the Cabinet Minister revealed that it came to the department’s notice that some eligible students could not avail the scholarship for the year 2024-25 as they or their institutions failed to lock their applications. In the interest of student welfare, the Punjab Government has decided to reopen the Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal till May 15, 2025, providing a final opportunity for such students to complete the application process.
Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s firm resolve, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged all eligible students and institutions to take full advantage of this extended opportunity and ensure that no deserving student is deprived of this crucial academic assistance.
=======================================
Modi Government’s Assault on Punjab’s Rights Shameful; Battle to Protect Punjab’s Water Will Endure: Dr. Baljit Kaur
Punjab’s Voice Will Forever Echo for the Rights of Its Water, Farmers, and Workers: Dr. Baljit Kaur
Chandigarh, May 1:Terming the move by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Central Government to deprive Punjab of its rightful share of river waters as utterly condemnable, Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said this step goes against the very principles of democracy and federalism.
She said water is the lifeline of Punjab, and the backbone of this state are its hardworking farmers and labourers who rely entirely on it for agriculture and livelihood.
Marking International Labour Day today, Dr. Baljit Kaur strongly criticized the Centre’s attempt to divert Punjab’s rightful water share to other states, calling it a clear betrayal and an act of backstabbing the people of Punjab.
“This is not the first time such injustice has been inflicted upon Punjab. The Modi Government has consistently adopted an anti-Punjab stance, ignoring the rightful demands and sentiments of our people,” she asserted.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that Punjab, being an agrarian state, cannot afford to lose even a drop of its water. The farmers and labourers of Punjab have always raised their voice against any injustice and will never tolerate this exploitation.
She further said this decision is not just an attack on Punjab, but an outright assault on the farmers and labourers of the entire nation. “We will oppose this treacherous policy of the Central Government tooth and nail. The fight for Punjab’s water and rights will continue relentlessly at every platform,” she concluded.
===========================================
BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL REJECTS BBMB DECISION TO RELEASE ADDITIONAL WATER TO HARYANA
SAYS, DATA SHOWING HARYANA HAS ALREADY EXCEEDED ITS ANNUAL ALLOCATION
"BJP GOVERNMENTS AT CENTER AND IN HARYANA ARE ATTEMPTING TO PLUNDER BHAKRA DAM WATER RESOURCES"
UNION POWER MINISTER ML KHATTAR PLAYING BIASED ROLE IN BHAKRA DAM WATER ALLOCATION: GOYAL
"COERCIVE POLICY OF BJP GOVERNMENT WOULD PROVE DANGEROUS FOR THE FEDERAL STRUCTURE"
Chandigarh, May 1:Categorically rejecting the Bhakra Beas Management Board's (BBMB) decision to release 8500 cusecs of additional water to Haryana, Punjab Water Resources and Soil & Water Conservation Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today said that Haryana has already utilized 104% of its annual water allocation.
Sh. Goyal said that Punjab is committed to protecting the state's rightful water share while highlighting that Punjab is already releasing 4,000 cusecs to Haryana despite facing its own water scarcity challenges.
"The data is clear and irrefutable. According to BBMB's own records, Haryana has already consumed 3.110 MAF of water against its annual allocation of 2.987 MAF, which means they have already used 104% of their share for the year," said Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal, adding that Punjab's farmers are facing critical water shortages, with 75.16% of our groundwater blocks (115 out of 153 blocks) already over-exploited compared to 61.53% in Haryana.
The Cabinet Minister further questioned the justification for Haryana's demand, noting that the requested 8500 cusecs far exceeds what would be required for drinking water purposes. Basic calculations show that Haryana's drinking water requirements for its around 3 crore population would not exceed 1700 cusecs, based on the standard allocation of 135 liters per person per day. The demand for 8500 cusecs would be sufficient for a population of around 15 crore, which clearly indicates this water is intended for irrigation purposes, not drinking water, he added.
The Cabinet Minister stressed that Punjab had strategically planned its water usage to ensure sufficient supply for cotton crops during the critical April-May period, after conserving water during the wheat season.
"We have repeatedly communicated to the BBMB Chairman that partner states should plan their water usage to meet all demands from their allocated share during April and May. While Punjab has supported Haryana during water shortages in the past, our current water situation makes it impossible to release more than the 4,000 cusecs we are already providing," he added.
Sh. Goyal reiterated that the Punjab government under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is steadfast in its commitment to safeguard every drop of Punjab's rightful share of water resources and will continue to oppose decisions that jeopardize the state's agricultural and economic interests.
Sh. Brainder Kumar Goyal said that the role being played by Haryana's former Chief Minister and sitting Union Power Minister Mr. Manohar Lal Khattar in securing additional water from Bhakra Dam for Haryana is biased. He said that Mr. Khattar should consider the interests of the entire nation rather than advocating solely for Haryana's benefit.
The Water Resources Minister criticized the coercive policy being adopted by the Union Government to procure extra water for Haryana, warning that such an approach would prove dangerous for the federal structure in the future.
He lamented that the BJP governments at the Center and in Haryana are attempting to plunder the water resources of Bhakra Dam. He pointed out that in the past, Punjab had excessively utilized its water resources to provide food security to the nation and depleted its soil fertility for the country's sake.
Sh. Goyal emphatically declared that they would also wage a legal battle on this issue and would not allow their rights to be usurped at any cost.
==========================================
TRAIL OF ACCUSED ABSCONDING IN WEAPON SMUGGLING CASE LEADS TO RECOVERY OF 5KG HEROIN IN AMRITSAR
— PROBE REVEALS THAT ABSCONDING ACCUSED JODHBIR JODHA ALSO COLLECTS DRUG PROCEEDS AND REMITS THEM TO PAKISTAN VIA HAWALA CHANNELS: DGP GAURAV YADAV
— POLICE TEAMS ON MANHUNT TO NAB ABSCONDING ACCUSED JODHBIR JODHA
CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, May 1:In a significant breakthrough amidst the ongoing anti-drugs campaign Yudh Nashian Virudh launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police’s relentless pursuit of absconding accused Jodhbir Singh alias Jodha—wanted in a Pak-backed illegal weapon smuggling module—led to the recovery of 5 kilograms of heroin from his rented hideout in Amritsar, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Thursday.
The development came four days after Counter Intelligence Amritsar has arrested of Jodhbir’s accomplice identified as Abhishek Kumar of village Meerankot Kalan in Amritsar, who was supplying weapons to anti-social elements on the instructions of his Australia-based handler identified as Jassa. Police teams had also recovered seven pistols and Rs 1.5 lakh from his possession, besides, impounding his Mahindra Thar vehicle being used for weapon smuggling.
DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation revealed that Australia-based handler Jassa and his associates— with links to Pakistan-based smugglers— were directing accused Jodhbir to retrieve heroin consignments for further distribution at different locations.
Further intelligence also indicates that accused Jodhbir Singh also collects drug proceeds and remits them to Pakistan through hawala channels, he said, while adding that the accused, who remains at large, is now implicated in a dual nexus of narcotics and weapon smuggling.
Sharing operation details, the DGP said that following the trail of accused Jodhbir, CI Amritsar police teams have found that the accused has got a accommodation in the Varindavan Garden Colony at Fatehgarh Churian Road in Amritsar, where he has stored a huge quantity of heroin and was also using rented house as safe haven.
Acting swiftly, Police teams raided the house and managed to recover 5kg heroin along with currency counting machine from the house, while, accused Jodhbir has been absconding. “Police teams are on manhunt to apprehend accused Jodhbir,” he said.
A fresh case FIR No. 27 dated 30-04-2025 has been registered under sections 21, 25, 27-A and 29 of the NDPS Act at Police Station State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar.
------------------------------------------------
ECI introduces three new initiatives: Sibin C
- Electronic obtaining data of Death registration for updation of electoral rolls
- BLOs to get standard photo ID
- Voter Information Slips to be made more elector friendly
Chandigarh, May 1:Punjab Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C informed that The Election Commission of India has introduced new initiatives aimed at improving the accuracy of electoral rolls, making the voting process more convenient for citizens. These measures are in line with the initiatives as envisaged by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India Gyanesh Kumar during the Conference of Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs), in the presence of Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi in March this year.
The Commission will now obtain death registration data electronically from the Registrar General of India in line with Rule 9 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 and Section 3(5)(b) of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 (as amended in 2023). This will ensure that the Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) receive timely information about registered deaths. This will also enable Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to re-verify the information through field visits, without waiting for a formal request under Form 7.
To make Voter Information Slips (VIS) more voter friendly, the Commission has also decided to modify its design. The serial number and part number of the voter will now be displayed more prominently, with increased font size, making it easier for voters to identify their polling station and for polling officials to locate their names in the electoral roll efficiently.
The Commission has also directed that all BLOs, who are appointed by the EROs under Section 13B(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, be issued standard photo identity cards to ensure that citizens can recognise and interact confidently with BLOs during voter verification and registration drives. As the first interface between the voters and the ECI in performing election related duties, it is important that BLOs are easily identifiable to the public while conducting house-to-house visits.
=======================================
Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan extols Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for taking clear stand on water dispute between two states
Chandigarh, 1 May 2025:Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan expressed his heartfelt gratitude and extolled S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Chief Minister of Punjab for taking a clear and timely stand on the water dispute between Punjab and Haryana. Punjab Chief Minister has taken much needed and timely action to safeguard the interests of farmers and people of Punjab.
Speaker Sandhwan said that Punjab is utilizing the water for the production of food grains, so every drop of water is precious for us and it is the lifeline of Punjab. Besides this, Punjab is also contributing immensely for supporting the country's food grains needs. Punjab needs its full share of water to make the country stronger. He added that Punjab has already utilized all its natural resources for production.
He highlighted that groundwater level has already receded in Punjab. Punjab is an agricultural dependent state and could not spare its own water with any other state. He added that it has already been predicted that Punjab will become a desert in the future due to the depletion of groundwater. Moreover, he stated that Punjab is not grabbing the rights of any other state, but we will continue to strive to protect our rights and will firmly defend them.
He further informed that Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has adopted an articulated policy in this regard. He added that we will thwart any such effort for taking away our share of water.
======================================
Punjab Eyes Kerala's Frozen Semen & Biotech Innovations for Livestock Boost
• Gurmeet Khudian visits Kerala's Frozen Semen Technology & Assisted Reproductive Technology Centre
Chandigarh, May 1:To bolster Punjab's cattle breeding with cutting-edge reproductive biotechnologies, Punjab Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian visited Kerala Livestock Development Board's (KLDB) pioneering Frozen Semen Technology and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Centre at Mattuppetty in Idukki district of Kerala. The facility, was established in 1965, stands as the birthplace of bovine frozen semen technology in India and remains a leading centre for advanced reproductive biotechnologies.
S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, along with Principal Secretary Animal Husbandry Mr. Rahul Bhandari and other officials, visited on the invitation of Kerala Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister Smt. J. Chinchurani, aimed to explore opportunities for technical collaboration in comprehensive cattle breeding programs.
Following the visit, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said, “The advanced genomic selection methods and assisted reproductive technologies at Mattuppetty offer immense potential for improving the genetic quality of our livestock in Punjab. The expertise in frozen semen production, in-vitro fertilisation, and embryo transfer programs could significantly boost the state government's cattle breeding initiatives.”
S. Khudian also held discussions with his Kerala counterpart Smt. J. Chinchurani and Secretary Animal Husbandry Dr. K Vasuki, IAS, via online mode. In-person discussions were also conducted with Dr. R. Rajeev, Managing Director of the KLD Board, at Mattuppetty.
The delegation was especially impressed by the KLDB's Centre of Excellence Laboratory for In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer (ET) programs, alongside the International Training Centre, which provides specialized training for veterinary professionals, para-veterinarians, and dairy farmers.
During the visit, several key areas for future collaboration were identified. The first area involves a Germ-plasm Exchange Program. Punjab will support Kerala's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in milk production by facilitating the procurement of high-quality Holstein Friesian (HF) calves, heifers, and cows from Punjab. These animals will be distributed to Kerala farmers and used as embryo/ovum donors for KLDB's IVF/ET programs, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated.
He also mentioned that the second area of collaboration focuses on Elite Breeding Stock Exchange, exploring possibilities for exchanging quality bulls of different cattle and buffalo breeds, along with the renowned Beetal breed of goats from Punjab with the KLD Board. The third area involves Biotechnology Knowledge Transfer through collaboration on advanced biotechnology programs in animal breeding, including Genomic Technology, IVF and ET Programs, and the production of high-quality frozen semen doses.
The fourth area centers on Technical Training Exchange, with reciprocal training programs. Professionals from Punjab will attend specialized courses in IVF/ET, frozen semen technology, and bovine reproductive technologies at Mattuppetty, while Kerala will send trainees to Punjab to learn about advanced practices established in Punjab's Animal Husbandry Department. The fifth area of collaboration focuses on Specialized Skill Development, where Punjab officials will participate in KLDB's training programs on fodder production, fodder seed quality testing, genomic breeding value estimation, genetic disease screening, and karyotyping.
"This collaboration marks a significant step toward modernising our livestock breeding programs through the integration of cutting-edge reproductive biotechnologies," added Animal Husbandry Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian.
========================================
From Addiction to Entrepreneurship: Punjab Govt-Sun Foundation Join Hands to Illuminate Path to Recovery
*• MP Sahney announces Rs. 1-CR Boost for Drug Rehabilitation Centres
Chandigarh, May 1:In a major push to combat drug addiction amidst the ongoing "Yudh Nasheyan Virudh" to make Punjab drug free state as per vision of AAP's National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and under able leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Government has partnered with the “Sun Foundation” to provide skill development at the 19 Government Drug Rehabilitation Centres running in the state. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and Member of Parliament (MP) S. Vikramjeet Singh Sahney, Chairman of the Sun Foundation, today here at Punjab Bhawan.
Underscoring his dedication to this critical cause, MP Vikramjeet Singh Sahney announced a contribution of Rs 1 crore from his MPLAD funds to bolster the drug rehabilitation centres. The foundation will also provide manpower and bear maintenance cost of the skill centres.
The Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh praised MP Sahney's contribution as a crucial step in the state's "Yudh Nasheyan Virudh" initiative, while conveying his appreciation to MP Sahney for his dedication in creating a drug-free Punjab.
Highlighting Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's vision, Dr. Balbir Singh emphasised the government's focus on tackling the alarmingly high relapse rate of 80-90% by integrating robust skill development and engaging the drug victims with recreational activities at the rehabilitation centres. He also lauded the government's progressive decision to decriminalise drug abusers, treating them as patients in need of care.
Dr. Balbir Singh detailed the government's harm reduction strategy, which focuses on moving intravenous drug users to safer alternatives such as tablets and liquid methadone to combat the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. He stated, "My vision is to transform drug addicts into entrepreneurs through targeted skill development," envisioning a "positive domino effect" where those rehabilitated become productive members of society.
Dr. Balbir Singh also extended his wishes on International Labour Day and paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1886 Chicago labourers' strike.
MP Vikramjeet Singh Sahney, Chairman of the Sun Foundation, addressed the misrepresentation of Punjab as solely a drug-afflicted state, acknowledging the widespread nature of the problem across India, including states like Maharashtra and Gujarat. He affirmed his "heartfelt desire" to help Punjab overcome this challenge and announced the Sun Foundation's commitment to operating 19 drug rehabilitation centres. Notably, the Sun Foundation already successfully manages three such centres in Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Mohali.
MP Sahney said that Sun Foundation will implement recreational, motivational, and spiritual activities within the centres, emphasising games, yoga, music, Gurbani, television-equipped recreation rooms, and counselling. Furthermore, a strong focus will be placed on skilling individuals in areas such as organic farming, plumbing, electrical work, mobile repair, and cookery, empowering them to secure livelihoods post-treatment and reducing the risk of relapse.
Secretary Health and Family Welfare cum Nodal Officer Anti-Drug Campaign Basant Garg, Director Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Assistant Director Dr. Sandeep Bhola, and other senior health officials were also present on the occasion.
========================================
Vows to fight tooth and nails against Centre Govt’s move to loot Punjab’s water resources
•Punjab calls all-party meeting and Special Season of State Assembly to tackle Centre’s "blatant betrayal”, says Arora
Chandigarh, May 1:In a bold move to safeguard Punjab’s waters, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) led Punjab Government has declared an all-out battle against the BJP-led Central Government’s "forced directive" to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to release excess water to Haryana.
Terming it a "daylight robbery," the State President of AAP and Punjab Cabinet Minister Mr. Aman Arora said that an emergency all-party meeting on Friday morning, followed by a Special Session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Monday, to strategize against what he called the Centre’s "blatant betrayal" of the state’s rights.
Addressing the media after a high-level meeting with Punjab's Cabinet Ministers, Aman Arora stated that Punjab will fiercely protect its interests and won't allow BBMB to release excess water beyond Haryana's share. He accused the BJP of deceiving Punjab, citing this action as another example of their true intentions.
The AAP President said that BJP is attempting to steal Punjab's water, despite the state having a 60% share in BBMB, by allocating 4700 cusecs water to Haryana beyond the neighbouring state’s share, which is over 1,700 cusecs. He asserted that the Aam Aadmi Party-led government won't tolerate this "loot" and "goondagardi" by BJP.
Highlighting the proactive stance of the state government, Mr. Aman Arora stated that AAP's National Convenor Sh. Arvind Kejriwal visited Chandigarh to assess the situation, while Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann today’s visited Nangal Bhakra dam to prevent water theft.
“It is a high time for BJP’s Punjab unit leaders including Sunil Jakhar, Ravneet Bittu, Tarun Chugh, Captain Amarinder Singh and others to clear their stand whether they stand by Punjab or only serving their political bosses to save their chairs,” asked Mr. Aman Arora while adding that if they are real sons of the Punjab then they should resign from their posts to clear their stance on the issue. He also demanded that the BJP leaders should also immediately approach their national leaders and make them clear that Punjab has not any single drop of water to spare for Haryana or any other state.
===============================
Zero tolerance against corruption: VB nabs General Manager PUNSUP red handed accepting Rs 1 lakh bribe
Official car also taken into possession
Chandigarh May 1, 2025 -The Punjab Vigilance Bureau during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state arrested General Manager PUNSUP, Ajit Pal Singh Saini, who also holds charges of Procurement, Storage, Commercial, Construction and Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO), red handed while he was accepting a bribe of Rs one lakh.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the arrest has been made following a complaint lodged by a resident of Ferozpur district.
He further informed that the complainant has approached the VB and alleged that the aforementioned General Manager of PUNSUP has been demanding bribe of 10% of total embezzled amount of about Rs 1.25 crore, the price of 14090 paddy bags allegedly shown under bogus purchase, and had demanded Rs 2 lakh as a first instalment. However, the deal was settled for Rs one lakh after negotiations.
The complainant is a commission agent at Mandis in Shahzdi and Mana Singh Wala, in Ferozepur. During purchase of paddy by PUNSUP in year 2024, total about 34,250 paddy bags were found less during physical inspection of stocks in concerned rice mills.
The commission agent (Ahartiya) firm of the complainant was alleged to have been involved in reporting bogus purchase of total about 34,250 paddy bags. Subsequently, he was directed to deposit the deficient amount of Rs 2.97 crores, subsequently, the complainant has deposited Rs 2.50 crores with PUNSUP as recovery.
Eventually, the complainant filed a representation with Managing Director, PUNSUP that gate passes of about 19040 paddy bags were deleted later from online portal by District Manager, Ferozepur and Inspectors of PUNSUP Ferozepur, as such he was wrongly fined for these bags. Thereafter, accused Ajit Pal Saini, GM approached the complainant through a common acquaintance Kanwal Deep and demanded bribe for settling the matter in the favour of the complainant.
The complainant has recorded an audio conversation of the accused wherein he demanded Rs 2,00,000 as first instalment. Earlier District Manager Ferozepur and 2 Inspectors of PUNSUP Ferozepur have also been suspended by the Department in the same matter.
The spokesperson added that preliminary verification of allegations were conducted discreetly and after finding the allegations prima facie to be true, a VB team from flying squad laid a trap during which the aforementioned General Manager was caught red handed in the Parking of Max Hospital, phase 6, Mohali while he was accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh from the complainant in the presence of two official witnesses. In this regard a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered VB police station, Flying Squad-1, Punjab at Mohali.
The VB team has recovered Rs 1,00,000 bribe money from his possession and official car of the accused in which he came on the spot to receive money, was also taken into possession. He would be produced in the competent court tomorrow and further investigation into this case was under progress, he said.
=========================================
AAP Punjab Protests Statewide Against Allocation of Additional Water to Haryana Through BBMB
Punjab's Water is Punjab's Right! – Resounds AAP Leadership
Chandigarh, May 1-The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab staged widespread protests across the state against the BJP-led Central Government’s decision to allocate additional water to Haryana through the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). AAP leaders and workers held demonstrations, emphasizing Punjab’s rightful claim over its water resources.
Highlighting the injustices faced by Punjab, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, and senior party leaders led protests in various districts, urging Punjabis to unite and oppose this unconstitutional move. The protests witnessed effigy burnings and demonstrations against BJP leaders at multiple locations across Punjab.
Amritsar
Cabinet Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO, along with AAP leaders Dr. Ajay Gupta, Baldev Miadian, Gurdev Lakhna, Moti Lal Bhatia, Jaspreet Singh, Dr. Inderpal, Iqbal Singh Bhullar, and Manish Aggarwal, along with hundreds of workers, gheraoed the residence of BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh.
Pathankot
Minister Lalchand Kataruchakk, AAP Leaders Amit Mintu, and Vibhuti Sharma, along with AAP Volunteers staged a protest outside BJP leader Ashwani Sharma’s residence in New Bank Colony, condemning the Central Government’s anti-Punjab policies.
Ludhiana
AAP MLAs and leaders, including Pappi Prashar, Madan Lal Bagga, Daljit Grewal Bhola, Kulwant Sidhu, Jeevan Singh Sangowal, and Amandeep Mohie, organized a protest at Arora Palace Dana Mandi, challenging the BJP’s unconstitutional decision.
Patiala
AAP leaders Dev Mann, Kulwant Bazigar, Kundal Gogia, Ranjit Hadana, Megh Chand Shermajra, and Tejinder Mehta protested outside Moti Mahal, the residence of former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, to demand justice for Punjab’s water rights.
Roopnagar
Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains, MLA Dinesh Chadha, and leader Harminder Dahne led protests at Bela Chowk in Roopnagar, declaring that Punjab will not tolerate any further exploitation of its water resources.
Fazilka and Shri Muktsar Sahib
Narinder Pal Singh Sawna, Arun Narang, and Shaminder Singh Khinda led demonstrations in these districts, emphasizing that Punjab’s water belongs solely to Punjab.
Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar protested with party leadership in Patti, burning an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to denounce the BJP’s misuse of BBMB.
Minister Dr. Ravjot staged a protest in Sham Chaurasi, condemning the Central Government’s attempt to divert Punjab’s water, and also burned the effigy of the Prime Minister.
Speaking on the issue, Minister Lal Chand Kataruchakk stated, "The BJP-led Central Government’s arbitrary actions to allocate Punjab’s water to Haryana will not be tolerated. Punjabis are united in opposing this injustice."
AAP Punjab reiterated its commitment to protecting Punjab’s water rights and urged all Punjabis to join the fight against this unconstitutional and unjust decision. The party vowed to continue its struggle on all fronts, including legal and public mobilization. Punjab’s water is Punjab’s right, and AAP will safeguard it at any cost.
============================================
Aam Aadmi Party Punjab Strongly Condemns BBMB's Decision to Divert Punjab's Water to Haryana
AAP MP Malvinder Kang Writes a Letter to BJP MP Ravneet Bittu, Poses Serious Questions
Kang Asks Bittu - Are You With Punjab or Complicit in BJP’s Loot of Our Water
Punjab’s Rights Are Non-Negotiable: AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang Calls Out BJP's Daylight Robbery
Chandigarh, May 1, 2025- The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) strongly opposed the Bhakra Beas Management Board’s (BBMB) decision to release an additional 8,500 cusecs of Punjab’s water to Haryana. AAP MP Kang said that this decision, taken under pressure from the BJP-led Central Government, is unconstitutional and an outright assault on Punjab’s rights.
AAP MP from Sri Anandpur Sahib, Malvinder Singh Kang, has called this move a grave injustice that jeopardizes Punjab’s farmers, its water security, and the state’s future generations. In a letter to BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu, Kang lambasted the BJP government for orchestrating this "daylight robbery" of Punjab’s rightful resources while accusing Bittu of maintaining a shameful silence on the matter.
“The BBMB decision is not just an administrative order—it is a direct attack on Punjab’s lifeline. Despite the fact that Haryana has already overdrawn its share of water, BJP has forced BBMB to hand over Punjab’s precious water to Haryana, leaving our farmers and citizens at risk of severe water scarcity. This is an insult to Punjab’s 3.5 crore people,” said Kang.
The BBMB annually distributes water between Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan from May 21 to the following May 20. However, Kang revealed that Haryana, after exhausting its full share by March 31, 2025, demanded an additional 4,000 cusecs daily from Punjab. Punjab, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, allowed this on humanitarian grounds to meet Haryana’s basic drinking water needs. However, BJP has now arm-twisted BBMB into granting Haryana an additional 8,500 cusecs—an action that AAP calls unlawful and unacceptable.
“Our reservoirs—Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams—are already at dangerously low levels. With groundwater levels depleting across the state, every drop of water is vital for Punjab’s farmers. Yet, BJP is sacrificing Punjab’s needs to appease Haryana. This is nothing short of bulldozing Punjab’s rights,” Kang stated.
Kang expressed disappointment at BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu's silence, accusing him of prioritizing his party’s political alliances over Punjab’s welfare. “Bittu’s inaction raises serious questions about whether he stands with Punjab or has surrendered to BJP’s unconstitutional diktats. The people of Punjab deserve answers,” Kang asserted.
AAP, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has taken a firm stand to expose BJP’s unconstitutional actions. Highlighting Haryana CM’s misleading statements that Punjab had agreed to this water diversion, the AAP government clarified that Haryana has already consumed 103% of its allocated share while Punjab has used only 89%. Despite this, Punjab extended support to Haryana, but BJP’s latest decision crossed all limits.
Kang reiterated that Punjab’s farmers and people will not tolerate this injustice. “Punjab’s history is filled with struggles to protect its resources and rights. Today, we face a similar challenge. AAP and the people of Punjab will resist BJP’s blatant disregard for Punjab’s welfare,” he affirmed.
In his letter to Bittu, Kang posed some serious questions to Bittu, "Are you with Punjab, or complicit in the BJP's exploitation of the state's resources? Why haven’t you raised the issue of BBMB’s illegal decisions in Parliament? Why are you silent on the alarming depletion of water levels in Punjab’s dams? Your inability to address these pressing questions raises serious doubts about your commitment to Punjab’s rights. The youth, intellectuals, and people from all walks of life are closely observing this anti-Punjab stance. It is time for you to either stand firmly for Punjab’s interests or relinquish the position you hold, which was secured in Punjab’s name but appears to serve BJP’s agenda."
AAP demands immediate reversal of BBMB’s decision and calls on all political parties in Punjab to unite and defend the state’s interests. The party also urges BJP leaders like Ravneet Singh Bittu to take a clear stand and oppose this unconstitutional decision in Parliament.
Taking to social media, Kang wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account, "The @BJP4India-led Central Government has crossed all limits by forcing BBMB to release 8,500 cusecs of Punjab’s water to Haryana. This is nothing short of an unconstitutional act of daylight robbery."
Kang assured the people of Punjab that the AAP Government will continue to fight for their rights and protect the state’s resources. Kang concluded that Punjab’s future cannot and will not be compromised for political gains.