National News: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and urged him to allot official space in Chandigarh for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Mann emphasized that AAP, now a recognized national party, should be given equal opportunity to establish its office in the Union Territory, just like other political parties.
Speaking to reporters outside Raj Bhavan, CM Mann said, “The Aam Aadmi Party holds the status of a national party. We have registered significant victories in Gujarat and the Ludhiana by-election, and we also have MLAs in Goa. Despite fulfilling all required criteria, AAP still does not have an office in Chandigarh.”
Mann pointed out that major political parties like the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) already have allotted spaces in the city, and AAP deserves similar treatment. He added that a formal request letter had been submitted to the Governor in this regard.
Cabinet Expansion: Sanjeev Arora to Be Inducted Soon
The Chief Minister also announced that AAP MLA Sanjeev Arora from Ludhiana West would soon be inducted into the cabinet. “The cabinet will be expanded within the next 2-3 days, and Sanjeev Arora will take oath as a minister. This is a promise we made during the by-election, and we are keeping it,” Mann said.
Celebration in Delhi and Focus on Farmers’ Welfare
Mann said AAP's recent electoral successes in Gujarat and Ludhiana West were a testament to public trust and the dedication of party workers. He shared that these victories would be celebrated in Delhi with key leaders like Gopal Italia and Sanjeev Arora.
Highlighting the government’s steps for farmer welfare, Mann noted adjustments in the paddy transplantation schedule to counter moisture loss and streamline procurement. “We’ve ensured uninterrupted power supply, sufficient canal water, and advanced payment timelines for the benefit of farmers,” he added.
Sharp Criticism of Congress and Akali Dal
The Chief Minister took a jibe at the Congress, accusing it of internal strife and ineffective leadership. “The Congress is riddled with factionalism. This division hampers both electoral performance and public service,” he stated.
He also criticized the Shiromani Akali Dal, saying, “The Akali Dal continues to be rejected by voters. Their candidates are even losing their deposits. It's not just the Badal family — the entire party needs to reconsider its relevance in Punjab politics.”
CM Bhagwant Mann’s assertive stance underlines AAP’s dual approach—strengthening its political presence while ensuring organizational rights. His advocacy for equal political space and continued focus on governance issues indicates a larger strategic vision as AAP expands its national footprint.
