Chandigarh, Aug 11 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann today reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the ideals of the state’s martyrs, stressing development and welfare, particularly for economically weaker and oppressed communities.
Speaking at a function commemorating the death anniversary of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Dhadgal, Mann said Punjab is a land blessed by Gurus, saints, Mahapurush, pirs, and martyrs whose sacrifices inspire the government’s efforts. “Punjabis possess an indelible spirit of hard work that has led to achievements in every field,” he said. Mann added that while Punjab’s fertile land can grow anything, “the seed of hatred can never grow here,” highlighting the state’s strong social bonds.
The Chief Minister described Punjab as a “holy land” where great spiritual leaders have shown paths of mutual love and tolerance. “Punjabis have always opposed oppression, injustice, and tyranny by strengthening love and harmony,” Mann said. He stressed that the government is working hard to fulfill the martyrs’ dreams and ensure that the benefits of freedom reach every citizen.
Mann lamented that despite more than 75 years since independence, freedom’s benefits have not reached every household. He criticized those in power who misused freedom to spread drugs like chitta, engage in corruption, and exploit people financially. “The dreams of the martyrs remain unfulfilled because previous rulers never made concrete efforts,” he said.
Highlighting Punjab’s pivotal role in the national freedom struggle, Mann asserted that Punjabis do not need permission to prove their patriotism. “Disrespect towards these great patriots and national leaders cannot be tolerated at any cost,” he declared.
The Chief Minister sharply criticized previous governments for neglecting the people and ruining the system, which forced many disillusioned youth to seek opportunities abroad. “It is unfortunate that young Punjabis had to work in countries whose rulers were expelled by our martyrs and patriots,” Mann said.
He accused former leaders of using their positions to accumulate vast wealth and build grand palaces with high walls and locked doors, isolating themselves from the public. “Just as these leaders kept themselves out of reach, the people of Punjab have shown them the way out of power,” Mann added.
