Malerkotla, March 31 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday announced that the state government will strongly oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill introduced by the BJP-led NDA government, calling it unfair to the Muslim community.
“The Muslim community is strongly opposing this bill, and the Aam Aadmi Party stands with them in this difficult time,” Mann said while addressing a gathering at the local Eidgah on Eid.
He added that the party will challenge the bill in both Parliament and the Vidhan Sabha to protect the community’s interests.
As part of an Eid gift, Mann unveiled ₹200 crore worth of development projects for Malerkotla, promising to transform the historic town into a “model district.”
He announced plans for a 100-seat medical college and a 200-bed super specialty hospital, aiming to make the district a hub for medical education and healthcare.
“High-quality health services will be provided to the people of Malerkotla,” he said.
The Chief Minister also revealed that the existing women’s college would be upgraded to enhance educational facilities. Besides, funds have been released for a new District Administrative Complex, a Tehsil Complex in Malerkotla, and another in Amargarh.
To boost infrastructure, Mann announced the development of a new bus stand, link roads, sanitation facilities, and playgrounds in Malerkotla and nearby villages.
He said rural connectivity would be strengthened by upgrading the Jarg-Rauni and Khanna roads.
The CM further announced that minibus services would be introduced in rural areas, with permits allocated to unemployed youth, creating jobs and improving transportation.
“Our government is committed to providing better road connectivity and creating employment opportunities,” he said.
On groundwater conservation, Mann said that since the AAP government came to power, 15,947 tributaries have been revived, ensuring water reaches remote villages. “This is a significant step toward conserving groundwater and providing canal water for farmers’ irrigation needs,” he said.
Mann also praised public participation in the ‘War on Drugs’ campaign, calling it vital for eradicating drug abuse. “People’s cooperation is essential to make Punjab drug-free,” he said, urging citizens to continue supporting the fight against narcotics.
