During a press conference on Tuesday, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticized the Congress and Akali Dal parties, labeling them as “termites” that have “destroyed” Punjab during their time in power. He pointed out that while these parties often avoid direct criticisms of each other, they are quick to attack him for revealing their shortcomings to the public.
Mann accused both parties of colluding with each other, playing a game of musical chairs to protect their mutual interests. “These are traitors who have shown no loyalty to the state or its citizens,” he stated while announcing a significant development initiative worth Rs 516 crore for the Hoshiarpur district, which focuses on enhancing healthcare facilities and improving regional connectivity.
He remarked, “For over 70 years since independence, these traditional parties have ruthlessly exploited the state. Their regressive and divisive policies have hindered development, leading to widespread suffering among the people.”
However, Mann claimed that in the past four years, his administration has ensured comprehensive development, fulfilling all promises made to the populace in an unprecedented timeframe.
Taking aim at the opposition, Mann accused former administrations of neglecting development efforts and engaging in corrupt practices, asserting that his government has worked diligently to address long-standing issues and set Punjab on a trajectory of advancement. “They are attempting to tarnish my reputation because of our progress,” he noted.
The chief minister highlighted that investment in healthcare and education is pivotal to the state’s development strategy, with the goal of improving infrastructure and public services to enhance the quality of life for residents across Punjab.
A notable aspect of his announcement was the plan for the Shaheed Udham Singh State Institute of Medical Sciences, which will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 268 crore. The institute, slated for completion within two years, will feature a 300-bed hospital, eight operating theatres, and a 500-seat auditorium. It aims to train approximately 100 MBBS students each year, thereby enhancing medical education and healthcare services in the area.
Additionally, Mann laid the groundwork for a 30-bed Community Health Centre in the Sham Chaurasi constituency. This facility will include modern amenities such as an operating theatre, diagnostic laboratory, X-ray services, vaccination units, and maternal care services, benefiting over 40 nearby villages. Furthermore, seven additional health and wellness centres will be established in the constituency to bolster grassroots healthcare.
Along with healthcare projects, Mann also announced infrastructure initiatives, including the foundation for the Rs 99 crore Balachaur-Garhshankar-Hoshiarpur-Dasuya road. This 105-km road will enhance connectivity between Chandigarh and Pathankot, extending to Jammu and Kashmir. The project is expected to shorten travel time between Delhi and Jammu while facilitating easier access for pilgrims heading to Anandpur Sahib, Mata Naina Devi, and Mata Jwala Ji.
Speaking to the audience at the event, the chief minister emphasized that these projects demonstrate the government’s dedication to bringing essential services closer to the people and fostering balanced regional development.
He added that development works worth Rs 385 crore have been specifically initiated in the Sham Chaurasi area to promote local growth.
Mann also underscored his government’s broader accomplishments in sectors like education, healthcare, and energy, reaffirming welfare initiatives such as providing free electricity to most households, offering health insurance coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh per family, and creating job opportunities.
For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram.
