The North News
Chandigarh, March 31
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday said that his government will strongly oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill introduced by the BJP-led central government. Speaking to the media after attending Eid celebrations, Chief Minister Mann said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) stands firmly with the Muslim community, which has voiced strong opposition to the bill. He pledged to challenge the legislation both in Parliament and the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
“Our government is committed to the welfare of all communities, and we will not allow any policy that undermines their interests,” he said. Mann also highlighted his administration’s efforts to conserve Punjab’s groundwater resources. Since taking office, he said, the government has revived nearly 16,000 watercourses, ensuring better irrigation for farmers while reducing reliance on underground water reserves.
Addressing concerns over drug abuse in the state, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that Eid prayers included calls for an end to the drug menace. He said public participation is key to the success of the anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’ and urged citizens to play an active role in making Punjab drug-free.
On infrastructure, Mann reiterated his government’s commitment to improving roads across the state. “Well-maintained roads are vital for economic growth, smooth transportation, and overall development,” he said.
In a major announcement for Malerkotla, Punjab’s only Muslim-majority town, Mann pledged ₹200 crore for various development projects. Addressing a gathering after Eid prayers, he emphasized the festival’s message of peace, brotherhood, and generosity. He urged people to celebrate beyond caste and creed, reinforcing communal harmony.
