Punjab, February 25:
On the second day of the special session of the Punjab Assembly, the state government formally scrapped the agricultural mandi (market) policy. This decision was taken in response to concerns raised by farmers and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Meanwhile, Cabinet Minister Ravjot Singh announced in the assembly that Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers will be set up in 10 districts of Punjab. This initiative aims to curb the rising number of stray dogs and dog bite incidents. Legislators expressed serious concerns over the increasing cases of dog attacks, which recently led to the tragic deaths of three children in Sangrur.
Discussions on Various Issues in the Assembly
During the question hour, Minister Tarunpreet informed the House that employees holding the same position in block and panchayat committees for 10 to 15 years would be transferred. Additionally, the Speaker emphasized the need to restore the dignity of sarpanches (village heads) and ensure their respect within local governance.
Corruption Allegations in the Power Department, Uproar in the House
A major controversy erupted when Leader of Opposition Pratap Singh Bajwa accused the Power Department of demanding money from a senior official for election expenses in Delhi. This led to a heated exchange between Bajwa and the Power Minister.
Bajwa further claimed that a former vigilance officer had prepared a list of 48 corrupt officials and submitted it to the Chief Secretary. However, instead of action being taken, the officer himself was removed from his position.
Debate Over Illegal Colonies and RERA Certification Delays
Shiromani Akali Dal MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali raised concerns about the increasing number of illegal colonies in Punjab. He pointed out that while the government is attempting to curb unauthorized constructions, delays in obtaining registration certificates from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) are a significant issue. He urged the government to streamline the certification process to prevent further illegal development.
Poisonous Liquor Tragedy and Political Accusations
Minister Aman Arora targeted the previous government, alleging that during Captain Amarinder Singh’s tenure, 130 people in Tarn Taran died after consuming poisonous liquor. He claimed that several ministers, MLAs, and close associates of the former Chief Minister were involved in the case, but no strict action was taken due to political pressure.
Former ED Director Niranjan Singh also revealed that senior officers had prevented further investigation into the matter.
Condemnation Over Ambedkar’s Portrait Removal
Finance Minister Harpal Cheema alleged that the BJP-led government in Delhi removed the portrait of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, calling it an insult to the architect of the Indian Constitution. He demanded that the Punjab Assembly pass a resolution condemning the act.
Leader of Opposition Pratap Bajwa also supported this demand, urging the House to hold a detailed discussion on the issue.
The Punjab Assembly session witnessed intense debates on key issues, including agriculture, governance, administration, and corruption. The political landscape in Punjab will be shaped by how these matters are investigated and resolved in the coming days.
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