BJP Cannot Win Punjab, Says CM Bhagwant Mann; Slams Party Over Farm Laws, Highlights Welfare Push

May 5, 2026

S.A.S. Nagar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of mistreating the state and asserting that the party should abandon any hopes of forming a government in Punjab.

“Punjab Will Not Forget Farmers’ Protest”

Speaking to the media, Mann said that people of Punjab are well aware of what he described as the BJP’s “dubious character” and would teach the party a lesson. He alleged that over 700 farmers lost their lives during the protests against the now-repealed farm laws, adding that Punjabis would never forget the “humiliation” faced by the farming community.

Alleges Step-Motherly Treatment Toward Punjab

The Chief Minister claimed that despite electoral success in other states, the BJP has consistently treated Punjab unfairly. He accused the party of attempting to deprive the state of its rightful claims, including issues related to Punjab University, Chandigarh, and the Bhakra Dam, and alleged that central grants due to the state have been withheld.

Rejecting the possibility of the BJP coming to power in Punjab, Mann said the party’s past actions against the state and its people would not be forgiven.

Focus on Healthcare and Welfare Schemes

Highlighting his government’s achievements, Mann said that 990 Aam Aadmi Clinics are currently providing free treatment across the state, with plans to increase the number to 1,400. He added that these clinics offer 107 medicines and 47 types of diagnostic tests free of cost, and have already recorded over five crore outpatient visits.

He also spoke about the Chief Minister Health Scheme, which provides cashless treatment of up to Rs 10 lakh per family, calling it a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at reducing financial burden on citizens.

Financial Support for Women and Free Power

Mann said the state has launched the ‘Maan Diyan Sattkar Yojana’, under which women receive Rs 1,000 per month, while Scheduled Caste women receive Rs 1,500. Around 97 per cent of women in the state are expected to benefit, with a budget allocation of Rs 9,300 crore.

He added that nearly 90 per cent of households in Punjab are receiving free electricity, alongside efforts to provide transparent employment opportunities, improve roads, and shut down toll plazas to save public money.

Irrigation and Agricultural Initiatives

Detailing steps taken for farmers, the Chief Minister said a 14,000-km canal and pipeline network has been developed, enabling the release of 21,000 cusecs of water—equivalent to two Bhakra canals. He also highlighted recharge points created to improve groundwater levels by 2–4 metres.

Strict Law Against Sacrilege Passed

Mann said the state government has passed the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, ensuring strict punishment for acts of sacrilege. He stressed that no one found guilty of disrespecting Guru Granth Sahib would be spared.

He also criticised opposition parties, including the Badal family, for opposing the legislation, calling it unfortunate that such sensitive issues were being politicised.

Criticism of Traditional Parties

Taking a swipe at traditional political parties, Mann said they had misled people for years but are now being rejected by voters. He added that leaders once considered invincible have now faded into political obscurity.

Religious Events and State Celebrations

The Chief Minister announced a ‘Shukrana Yatra’ from May 6 to 9, covering key religious sites including Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and Akal Takht.

He also highlighted upcoming celebrations marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur and the 650th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, stating that the government would ensure these events are celebrated globally with full devotion.