Panchkula, May 6
The Aam Aadmi Party on Tuesday released its manifesto for the Panchkula Municipal Corporation elections. The announcement was made by Haryana AAP president and former MP Sushil Gupta in the presence of mayoral and councillor candidates.
Addressing a press conference, Gupta targeted the BJP government, alleging a ₹160 crore scam at the Panchkula Municipal Corporation and claiming that such irregularities could not occur without protection from higher authorities. He also cited an alleged ₹1,000 crore payment scam in Faridabad, where, he said, work existed only on paper. Gupta added that despite protests by AAP, action was taken only against contractors and lower-level officials, while senior figures remained untouched.
Referring to similar protests in Sirsa, Gupta said the AAP had consistently raised its voice against corruption. He announced a 16-point manifesto for the civic polls, promising to prioritise public needs if voted to power. Drawing from the party’s governance model in Delhi and Punjab, he assured development-focused governance in Panchkula.
Key promises include eliminating corruption, improving sanitation, constructing permanent roads, and providing free door-to-door garbage collection. Gupta also highlighted healthcare initiatives, stating that AAP governments have implemented schemes like health insurance coverage up to ₹10 lakh in Punjab and ensured welfare delivery in Delhi.
Commenting on the BJP’s victory in West Bengal, Gupta accused the party of promoting authoritarianism, alleging the misuse of institutions such as the Election Commission, the ED, and the CBI. He further claimed that around 2.7 million votes were allegedly removed during the elections, calling it a “mockery of the Constitution.”
On leaders from Punjab joining the BJP, Gupta alleged that central agencies are used to pressure businessmen and politicians, offering protection after they join the party. He added that AAP will contest civic elections in Ambala, Panchkula, and Sonipat, and senior party leaders are expected to campaign in the coming days.
