Protest by AAP leaders: Bajwa slams ‘misplaced priorities’ of govt

Chandigarh: Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Partap Singh Bajwa, on Monday expressed concern over what he described as the misplaced priorities of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) govt, following a protest staged by AAP leaders and workers in Chandigarh. Reacting to the demonstration, Bajwa said it was surprising that senior members of the state govt, including finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema, appeared to have ample time for political theatrics instead of addressing the pressing governance and financial challenges confronting Punjab. He emphasised that at a time when the state is grappling with mounting fiscal pressures and economic uncertainty, the govt's foremost responsibility should be to restore financial stability and ensure effective administration.Bajwa stated that the people of Punjab expect their govt to focus on development, public welfare, and strengthening the state's economy rather than engaging in what he termed "non-issues" for political mileage. He underscored that responsible governance requires sustained attention to policy implementation, fiscal discipline, and long-term planning, not symbolic protests or staged political activities.
Clarifying his earlier remarks that drew criticism, Bajwa categorically rejected allegations that his comments were caste-specific or directed at any particular community. He explained that his statements were made in a general context and openly, with party leader and AICC secretary Sukhwinder Singh Danny Bandala present at the time. He further noted that deputy CLP leader Aruna Chaudhry and several respected leaders from the dalit community, including AICC secretary Sukhwinder Singh Danny Bandala, MLA Vikram Chaudhry, MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal, Ex-MLA Kuldip Vaid, Ex-MLA Pawan Kumar Adia and Ex-MLA Joginder Pal Bhoa collectively condemned AAP's attempt to malign his image and mislead the public.According to Bajwa, such support reflects the true intent behind his words and demonstrates that his statements were not aimed at any section of society. He maintained that no responsible public representative would deliberately act against the sentiments or interests of any community.Reiterating his call for seriousness in governance, Bajwa remarked that administration cannot be reduced to a stage show or political spectacle. He added that if such protests genuinely improve the lives of Punjabis or contribute to their safety and prosperity, the govt is free to continue them daily. However, he stressed that the citizens of Punjab deserve focused and accountable leadership that prioritises financial stability, development, and the welfare of the state. MSID: 128113038 413 |