Is the Punjab Cabinet Expansion Happening This Week?

Chandigarh, June 24 (NationPress) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Tuesday that the Cabinet will be expanded shortly, with Sanjeev Arora, the legislator from Ludhiana (West), set to receive a ministerial position. This step is in line with a pledge made to the electorate during the recent by-election campaign.

"We are planning to expand the Cabinet within the next two to three days to welcome Sanjeev Arora as a minister. This is a promise we intend to keep," Mann stated to the media after his meeting with Governor Gulab Chand Kataria here.

During the meeting, he requested the Governor to allocate land in Chandigarh for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to set up its office.

Emphasizing AAP’s status as a national entity, Mann mentioned to reporters outside Raj Bhavan that the party meets all necessary criteria for establishing an official office in the Union Territory, similar to other political organizations.

"AAP is recognized as a national party. We have celebrated significant wins, including those in Gujarat and the Ludhiana bypolls. We also have representatives in Goa. Yet, AAP lacks an office in Chandigarh, despite complying with all requirements," CM Mann articulated.

He noted that major political entities such as the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and BJP have established offices in Chandigarh.

Mann insisted on equal treatment and sought the governor’s assistance regarding this issue.

"We have formally written to the Governor, requesting a location for AAP to build its office here," he added.

Mann expressed pride in AAP’s recent victories in Punjab and Gujarat. He shared plans to celebrate these achievements in Delhi with party leaders, including Gopal Italia and Sanjeev Arora.

"These triumphs demonstrate the people's confidence in AAP's transparent governance and the dedication of our leaders and volunteers," he remarked.

Addressing the government’s initiatives to support farmers, Mann highlighted improvements in paddy transplantation schedules to mitigate moisture loss and enhance procurement timelines.

"We have ensured a constant supply of electricity, sufficient canal water, and expedited procurement timelines to assist farmers," he stated.

Mann criticized internal divisions within the Congress, pointing out their lack of cohesion and direction.

"The Congress is plagued by internal strife and factionalism. This has been evident during and post elections. A disunited party cannot effectively serve the public," Mann expressed.

In a pointed critique of the Shiromani Akali Dal, Mann urged them to reconsider their position in Punjab's political landscape.

"The Akali Dal has been consistently rejected by the electorate. Their candidates are failing to secure deposits, and their influence is waning. It might be time for the Akali Dal to reevaluate their role in electoral politics," Mann concluded.