Chandigarh, April 7 (NationPress) Former minister and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia expressed serious concerns on Tuesday regarding the escalating debt crisis in Punjab. He accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of exacerbating the state's financial woes by acquiring an additional loan of Rs 1,500 crore.

Majithia scrutinized the government's financial priorities, asserting that this new borrowing comes at a time when Punjab is already grappling with substantial debt. He highlighted that rather than enforcing fiscal discipline or minimizing liabilities, the government is increasingly dependent on loans, which is driving Punjab further into financial turmoil.

According to him, the Rs 1,500-crore loan is primarily intended for what he termed as “joyrides in planes” for AAP leaders based in Delhi, especially party convener Arvind Kejriwal, in addition to funding for government advertisements.

He denounced this expenditure, emphasizing that public funds should not be allocated for such “luxuries” and “joyrides” while critical sectors are in distress.

Majithia underscored the urgent need to support farmers, suggesting that these funds should instead be directed towards compensating those who have suffered due to crop failures and natural disasters.

He stressed that immediate financial relief is vital, particularly for farmers already facing economic hardships.

In reference to a recent political claim made by Kejriwal in Gujarat, Majithia noted that assertions were made that Punjab farmers received Rs 50,000 per acre for flood-related damages. He insisted that “if such a commitment has been publicly declared, the Punjab government must honor this promise and ensure that farmers receive the Rs 50,000 per acre without delay.”

He also pointed out that the government's promise of adequate compensation during the floods remains unfulfilled, accusing the administration of failing to meet its commitments.

Majithia argued that such statements made outside the state do not accurately represent the reality faced by the people of Punjab.

He further criticized AAP, stating that the party came into power with the pledge to decrease Punjab's debt, not to impose additional financial burdens on the state.

However, he noted that over the past four years, the government has done the exact opposite by consistently increasing its loans. Majithia contended that this strategy has not only escalated the debt but has also weakened Punjab's economic standing.