Bhagwant Mann Attends Moga Anti-Drug Rally After Hospital Discharge, Slams Opposition

February 16, 2026

Chandigarh: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government held an anti-drug rally in Moga. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also sharply rebuked his opponents regarding his health. Mann stated that he would not go anywhere but would instead root for the BJP, Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab’s athletes used to be famous, but these people have turned Punjab into a vaccine-themed state. Without naming Bikram Singh Majithia, he called him a murderer.

Arvind Kejriwal urged people to go from village to village and explain the rise of drug addiction in Punjab during the tenures of the Akali Dal, BJP, and Congress governments. He said that for the first time, strict action is being taken against drug traffickers and appealed to the people not to vote for other parties.

It is noteworthy that CM Bhagwant Mann’s health suddenly deteriorated yesterday, after which he was admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali, from where he was discharged this afternoon, after which CM Mann reached Moga by helicopter to attend the rally.

ਮੋਗਾ ਨੇੜੇ ਪਿੰਡ ਕਿੱਲੀ ਚਹਿਲਾਂ ਵਿਖੇ ਅੱਜ ਆਮ ਆਦਮੀ ਪਾਰਟੀ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਵਿਸ਼ਾਲ ਰੈਲੀ ਹੋ ਰਹੀ ਹੈ…ਮਿਲਦੇ ਹਾਂ ਦੋਸਤੋ

— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) February 16, 2026

Hospitalisation After Feeling Unwell

On Sunday evening, Mann felt unwell while in Sangrur during Maha Shivratri celebrations and was flown by government helicopter to Fortis Hospital, Mohali for further evaluation. Initial reports suggested his blood pressure shot up and he experienced exhaustion, prompting immediate admission for observation and supportive care. Hospital officials have said his vital parameters are stable and within normal limits.

Health Status and Care

According to the medical statement, the Chief Minister underwent routine clinical assessment and diagnostic tests. He remains under observation by a multidisciplinary medical team, and while stable, doctors have advised continued monitoring. There has been no official indication yet that he will return to public events today.

This hospitalisation marks Mann’s latest health episode — he has previously been admitted several times during his tenure due to exhaustion, low heart rate, and blood pressure fluctuations. His most recent hospital stay before this was in September 2025, when he was treated for exhaustion and related issues.

Impact on Moga Rally

The Moga rally, a flagship event in the AAP’s war against drugs, was expected to draw massive crowds and showcase the party’s efforts to curb the state’s narcotics problem. With over 50,000 attendees anticipated, the event now sees Kejriwal and other senior leaders addressing the crowd in Mann’s absence.

Political Implications

The rally was also seen as a prelude to larger political mobilisations in Punjab ahead of future contests, especially with heightened focus on law and order and anti-drug measures. Mann’s absence has stirred speculation within political circles and media about leadership roles and party strategy going forward — including discussions around the appointment of two deputy chief ministers in the state.

Earlier Activities Before Hospitalisation

Earlier on Sunday, Mann joined Kejriwal at the Rankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dhuri where both leaders offered prayers in celebration of Maha Shivratri. The visit was highlighted by cultural and spiritual messaging about Punjab’s heritage.

Looking Ahead

While Mann’s condition is described as stable, it remains unclear when he might be discharged or return to active public engagement. Officials and party leaders are monitoring his progress closely, with decisions likely to be updated as more medical information becomes available.