Bathinda: On the second day of his Bathinda visit on Sunday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused opposition parties, particularly the BJP, of attempting to divide people on religious lines. Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the district library near the District Administrative Complex, built at a cost of around ₹9 crore, Mann said the BJP promotes politics of hatred, but Punjab’s communal harmony remains strong.
Referring to a controversial video about Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji circulated by AAP leader Atishi, Mann said the video had been tampered with and described it as a result of BJP’s frustration. He also accused the Congress and Akali Dal of echoing BJP’s narrative.
Mann highlighted his government’s focus on employment, tourism, and start-up programs to prevent Punjab’s youth from seeking opportunities abroad. He reiterated that farmers’ rights and river water issues would be raised with the Prime Minister.
Regarding the case of 328 missing saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Mann clarified that the SIT is investigating the relics themselves, not the finances. He also dismissed concerns about Bikram Singh Majithia in jail and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to law and order.
On the party’s performance in the District Council elections in Bathinda, Mann said the margin of defeat was minimal and praised the party’s overall performance across the state.
