Niranjan Singh’s AD-WPD move personal decision: Dr Balbir Singh

Health Minister speaks on Ayurveda, hospital theft, political speculation and the Anandpur Sahib case

Patiala, September 23

Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh visited Patiala Ayurvedic College on Wednesday, where he interacted with students on Ayurveda and its role in healthcare, while also speaking on the theft of a ventilator from Mata Kaushalya Hospital, speculation about Niranjan Singh joining Waris Punjab De, and the alleged rape of a Bahrain-based woman at a sarai in Sri Anandpur Sahib.

During his interaction with students, the Punjab health Minister  said Ayurveda’s contribution to healthcare was well known. He said the Punjab Government was working to promote Ayurveda in the state further.

On the theft of a ventilator worth around Rs 10 lakh from Mata Kaushalya Hospital in Patiala, Dr Balbir Singh said he was aware of the matter. He said the person involved was not an ordinary individual and expressed confidence that the police department would arrest the accused soon.

Commem on Niranjan Singh joining Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De), Dr Balbir Singh said every citizen was free to join any political party. Referring to Niranjan Singh’s stand on the drug racket, he said he had faced several challenges during his duty. Dr Balbir  Singh said if Niranjan Singh decided to join Waris Punjab De, it would be his personal decision.

On the alleged rape of a woman who came from Bahrain at a sarai in Sri Anandpur Sahib, Dr Balbir said people had deep faith in gurdwaras and that those who had violated her dignity and sanctity would face the consequences. He said the government was taking appropriate action against those responsible and added that they would ultimately face punishment for their deeds.