Chandigarh, March 13 (NationPress) In anticipation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's political gathering in Moga, Punjab, slated for Saturday, Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Cheema presented a series of incisive inquiries directed at the BJP-led Central government, urging BJP officials to seek definitive answers during the rally.

Cheema asserted that the BJP government at the national level has persistently shown favoritism against Punjab, subjecting it to years of unfair treatment.

He emphasized that despite the AAP government having been in power in Punjab for four years, the Centre has continually obstructed rightful financial resources and made attempts to undermine the state's economy.

“Punjab has consistently stood steadfast with the nation, from its role in the freedom struggle to its vital contributions to the country’s food supply through its farmers. Punjabis have made significant sacrifices for India’s independence and have played a crucial role in the nation’s food security since the Green Revolution. Yet today, the BJP-led Centre is willfully ignoring Punjab,” stated Cheema.

He noted that following the withdrawal of the three farm laws, which were repealed after extensive protests by farmers in the state, the BJP leadership developed an antagonistic stance towards Punjab and has since sought to economically weaken the region.

“The Centre has withheld thousands of crores owed to Punjab under various schemes, including the Rural Development Fund,” Cheema remarked.

He recalled how in 2022, the Central government raised objections, alleging misuse of the RDF funds.

“In response, the Punjab government promptly amended the law to ensure that RDF funds are exclusively allocated for rural mandis and agricultural village roads. Nevertheless, the Centre continues to delay the disbursement of Punjab’s rightful dues,” he added.

Cheema mentioned that he has consistently highlighted these issues in discussions with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, calling for the release of Punjab’s overdue funds under the Rural Development Fund, the National Health Mission, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana.

However, the Centre has persistently postponed payments for various reasons. Cheema also pointed out that the BJP-led government has attempted to infringe on Punjab’s rights regarding water resources.

Touching upon the SYL canal controversy and matters concerning the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Cheema stated that the Centre has repeatedly sought to undermine Punjab’s legitimate share of water.

“Punjab has always honored its commitments to neighboring states, such as Haryana, yet the BJP-led Centre continues to push forward decisions that jeopardize Punjab’s rights. Punjab will never concede its rightful claims,” Cheema affirmed.

He also raised concerns about whether the proposed India-US agricultural trade agreements would negatively impact Indian farmers.

Referring to comments made by the US Agriculture Secretary that suggested American farmers would benefit from access to the Indian market, he questioned, “If American farmers prosper from gaining access to India’s market, does that imply Punjab’s farmers will face hardship? The citizens of this nation deserve clarity.”