Chandigarh: The final and fifth budget session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly under the Aam Aadmi Party government began with an address by Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.
The Governor started his speech with the traditional Sikh slogan “Bole So Nihal.” He was welcomed at the Assembly complex by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan.
However, the first day of the session witnessed heavy uproar in the House. Congress MLAs, led by Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, raised slogans for nearly 17 minutes during the Governor’s address before staging a walkout.
During his speech, Kataria highlighted the state government’s achievements in the health sector, including the functioning of Aam Aadmi Clinics, improvements in medical colleges and benefits provided under the Chief Minister’s health insurance scheme. He also mentioned the government’s “War Against Drugs” campaign.
The budget session will continue until March 16. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema will present the state budget for the financial year 2026–27 on March 8, which coincides with International Women’s Day.
The government is also expected to announce provisions for the ₹1,000 monthly allowance promised to women during the budget.
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, AAP leaders and workers staged a protest outside the Assembly against the Congress. Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO and AAP Punjab youth wing president Parminder Singh Goldy were among those present, with supporters holding a demonstration accompanied by band music.
