Chandigarh, August 14: Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij said that, on the directions of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the “Tiranga Yatra” and “Har Ghar Tiranga” programmes are organised every year ahead of Independence Day. A Tiranga Yatra was held in Ambala Cantonment today. “The Tricolour is our pride, honour, dignity and glory. Today, the people of Ambala came out onto the streets celebrating the Tricolour, which shows how deeply people love and respect our national flag,” he said.

Sh. Vij was speaking to media persons after the massive Tiranga Yatra held in Ambala Cantonment today.

Energy Minister Anil Vij also spoke about Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Divas, which is being observed across the country today. He said that August 15 marks both India’s Independence and the Partition of the country. He stated that crores of people were rendered homeless during Partition and around 10 lakh people lost their lives. He attributed the Partition to what he described as the “wrong policies of the Congress party,” and said, “It was not just the Congress party, but a ‘killer Congress’.” He said that during the freedom struggle, people were never told at any stage that the country would be partitioned. The understanding was that the struggle was for India’s independence. However, when independence came, the idea of dividing the country into a Hindu country and a Muslim country was put forward.

He said no proper plan had been prepared for the Partition—where people would go, where they would live and how they would survive. According to him, people were left to their fate. He described the violence during Partition as an unprecedented massacre and alleged that Congress leaders, driven by a desire for political power, failed to consider what would happen to ordinary citizens. He said that today, both the Tiranga Yatra and Partition Horrors Remembrance Day were observed.
Earlier, the Bharatiya Janata Party organised a massive Tiranga Yatra in Ambala Cantonment under the leadership of Energy Minister Anil Vij. Minister Anil Vij appeared immersed in patriotic spirit during the yatra and was seen dancing to patriotic songs. Waving the Tricolour, he raised slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram”, filling the gathering with enthusiasm.

Ambala Cantonment turned into a sea of Tricolours; tremendous enthusiasm among people

Thousands of BJP workers and local residents enthusiastically participated in the Tiranga Yatra, which began at SD Temple on Hill Road in Ambala Cantonment. The entire city appeared to be draped in the colours of the Tricolour. There was tremendous enthusiasm among the people, who danced and celebrated to patriotic songs.

The yatra received a warm welcome at several places along the route. It began from SD Temple and passed through Sabzi Mandi, DC Road, Chowra Bazaar, Bajaja Bazaar, Sadar Chowk, Nicholson Road and Cross Road before concluding back at the SD Temple premises.

Ambala Cantonment filled with patriotic spirit during the Tiranga Yatra

Ambala Cantonment was filled with patriotic fervour throughout the Tiranga Yatra. Wherever the procession passed, people were seen dancing and celebrating to patriotic songs. Flowers were showered on the yatra at several locations. Residents and shopkeepers welcomed the procession by showering flowers from the rooftops of their homes and shops.
During the yatra, Minister Anil Vij greeted the people and extended his Independence Day greetings to them.
During the Tiranga Yatra, Ambala Cantonment in-charge Dharamveer Mirzapur, senior BJP leader Kapil Vij, Municipal Council President Swarn Kaur, Lalita Prasad, Rajiv Gupta Dimple, BS Bindra, Balwinder Shahpur, Madan Lal Sharma, Sanjeev Soni, Ashish Aggarwal, Vijender Chauhan, Ajay Baweja, Pravesh Sharma, Ravi Budhiraja, Harsh Bindra, Vikas Bahgal, Vipin Khanna, Shyam Sundar Arora, Aarti Sehgal, Puneet Sarpal, Sanjeev Atri, Raman Chhatwal, Mohit Kaushik, Bhupesh Sharma, Balkesh Vats, Anuj Yadav, Sunil Shakya, Diwansh Walia, Jitender Sehgal, Ravi Sehgal, along with a large number of party workers and local residents, were present.

Chandigarh, August 14, 2026: A solemn programme was organised today at the Bharatiya Janata Party Chandigarh Pradesh office ‘Kamalum’, Sector 33, on the occasion of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. BJP National Vice President Saudan Singh was specially present at the programme, lending special significance and dignity to the occasion. The programme remembered the millions of innocent people who lost their lives during the Partition of India on 14 August 1947, and paid tribute to the suffering, struggle and displacement endured by countless families.
The programme was addressed by BJP Chandigarh Pradesh President Jatinder Pal Malhotra, former BJP Chandigarh Pradesh President and present Himachal Pradesh Co-Incharge Sanjay Tandon, Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, and Pradesh General Secretary Ramveer Bhatti.
During the programme, artists presented a powerful street play (Nukkad Natak) depicting the horrifying, tragic and painful circumstances prevailing during the Partition of 1947. Through the performance, the agony of displacement, separation from loved ones, destruction of homes and the violence suffered by innocent people was brought alive. The presentation moved the audience emotionally and brought back the painful memories of the Partition tragedy.
Jatinder Pal Malhotra said:
14 August 1947 remains one of the darkest chapters in the history of India. With Partition, the country witnessed a devastating human tragedy whose pain continues to live in the memories of millions of families. The political ambitions of the then Congress leadership, particularly Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s desire for power and the Prime Minister’s position, coupled with the haste surrounding the transfer of power, created circumstances that ultimately culminated in the horrific tragedy of Partition.
He said that in the rush to assume power, adequate importance was not given to the national interest and the grave social consequences of Partition. As a result, millions of innocent people lost their lives while crores were forced to leave their homes, property and homeland.
Different historical estimates exist regarding the number of people killed in the violence during Partition, with estimates ranging from around 10 to 15 lakh deaths. The scale itself reflects the magnitude of the human tragedy.
He said Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is not about forgetting history for political convenience, but about learning from it and strengthening India’s unity, integrity and social harmony.
Sanjay Tandon said:
Partition was not merely a division of geographical boundaries; it was a tragedy that shattered the lives, families and emotions of millions of people. The price of the power-centric approach and hurried political decisions of the leadership of that time was paid by ordinary citizens with their blood and tears.
He said millions of families were forced to leave their homes, property and loved ones and become refugees. Despite this immense suffering, displaced families displayed extraordinary courage, hard work and patriotism, rebuilding their lives and making a significant contribution to the reconstruction of India.
He said Partition Horrors Remembrance Day reminds us that national interest must always remain above political ambition, and that India’s unity and integrity can never be compromised under any circumstances.
Satnam Singh Sandhu said:
Remembering the horrors of Partition is not about creating hostility towards any community; it is about acknowledging a painful historical truth and ensuring that its lessons reach future generations.
He said the political decisions of the then Congress leadership, in which Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru played an important role, and the haste surrounding the transfer of power resulted in an immense human cost. Millions lost their lives and crores were forced to endure the pain of displacement.
He said the purpose of remembering history is not to create hatred, but to learn from history and secure the future. It is essential that the younger generation understands the suffering caused by Partition and the struggles of displaced families so that national unity, integrity and social harmony always remain paramount.
Ramveer Bhatti said:
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day provides an opportunity to remember the sacrifice, suffering and struggle of countless families who faced some of the most difficult circumstances in history. He said the power politics of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and the then Congress leadership, along with the haste surrounding the pursuit of the Prime Minister’s position, ultimately left ordinary Indians to bear the consequences.
He said displaced families started their lives from scratch after Partition and, through their hard work, made a significant contribution to India’s social and economic development. Their struggle remains an inspiration for generations to come.
He said remembering history is not about creating hatred against anyone, but ensuring that political interests never become greater than national interest in the future. Strengthening India’s unity, integrity and social harmony is the true tribute to the victims of Partition.
During the programme, tribute was paid to those who lost their lives in the Partition tragedy of 14 August 1947, and the struggle, sacrifice and contribution of displaced families were remembered with respect.
Former Pradesh President Arun Sood, Pradesh Vice Presidents Davinder Singh Babla, Bharat Kumar and Indira Singh, along with other Pradesh office-bearers and office-bearers of various Morchas and cells, and party workers, were also present at the programme.
BJP Chandigarh Pradesh reiterated its resolve to strengthen the unity, integrity, social harmony and brotherhood of the country and to always keep national interest above all else.

Chandigarh: Senior BJP leader Sanjay Tandon has intervened to help resolve a parking-related issue between the management of Guru Nanak Khalsa Senior Secondary School, Sector 30-B, and residents of the surrounding area.

Tandon held a meeting with the school management and local residents at the school premises to discuss the parking concerns and explore a mutually acceptable solution. Following discussions, both sides agreed to a compromise aimed at ensuring the smooth movement and safety of schoolchildren while addressing residents’ parking requirements. The issue was resolved by Tandon in coordination with the Chandigarh Administration.

As part of the understanding, the school management will have a designated area available during school timings to facilitate the safe and hassle-free boarding and deboarding of students. The residents, in turn, agreed to refrain from parking their vehicles in the existing parking area located between the school premises and the residential boundary and use alternative parking spaces instead.

After mediating the solution to the parking issue troubling the school management & residents of Sec 30, Sanjay Tandon said, “Resolving issues related to public convenience is among our key priorities. Understanding the problems faced by citizens, effectively raising them before the concerned authorities and making sustained efforts towards their resolution is our collective responsibility.”

He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chandigarh Administration for its cooperation in addressing this important issue related to public convenience.

“I sincerely thank the Chandigarh Administration for extending its support towards resolving this important issue in the larger public interest. Our endeavour is to ensure that citizens receive better facilities and that problems affecting their day-to-day lives are addressed in a timely manner,” he said.

The local residents and the school management expressed their gratitude to Sanjay Tandon for taking up the issue of parking with the Chandigarh Administration and for his efforts towards resolving the matter.

Tandon further said that issues concerning public convenience and local development require coordinated efforts among all stakeholders.

“Providing better civic amenities is not the responsibility of the administration alone. It is a shared responsibility of all those committed to the welfare of society. We will continue to work together to make Chandigarh a more convenient, organised and citizen-friendly city,” he added.

Sanjay Tandon also thanked the management of Guru Nanak Khalsa Senior Secondary School for organising and supporting the meeting. He expressed his gratitude to Gurvinder Singh, senior member of the Management Committee; Inderjit Kaur, Vice Principal; and Amrit Pal, Manager.

BJP spokesperson Naresh Arora, Rajinder Kaur Rattu, Inderjit (Kala), Gaurav (Lucky), Mandal President Ravi Rawat and other prominent members were also present at the meeting.

Ambala: Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Friday urged the government to handle the situation at the historic Gurudwara Panjokhra Sahib in Ambala with impartiality and sensitive manner. He stated that this is a sensitive matter which should be resolved through mutual dialogue, restraint, and goodwill, rather than through the use of police force, lathi-charges, or legal cases. Hooda remarked that this government often fails to act with promptness and seriousness, instead allowing law-and-order issues to take on caste or communal overtones. He alleged that the confrontation at the Gurudwara was deliberately allowed to drag on, and the government took unilateral action without grasping the gravity of the situation.

“Many members of the Sikh Sangat (congregation) and police personnel were injured during the protests, and reports of damage to vehicles also emerged. However, instead of escalating this conflict further, the BJP government should now withdraw the cases registered against the Sikh Sangat, members of the Haryana Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee, and farmers,” he stated.

Regarding the tragic incident where a person was crushed under a vehicle, the administration failed to take legal action against the vehicle’s occupant and the driver at the time. “Instead of engaging in a detailed, face-to-face dialogue with the protesters, force was used against them. Consequently, the issue continued to escalate, creating a tense atmosphere stretching from Haryana to Punjab,” he added.

Hooda noted that the Congress party had established a separate Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee for Haryana to prevent conflicts within Gurudwaras and to restore trust among the Sikh Sangat. This move had resolved various disputes and put an end to incidents of confrontation within the Gurudwaras.

Chandigarh, August 14

Under the leadership Justice Deepak Sibal, Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court and Executive Chairman, Haryana State Legal Services Authority (HALSA), a State-wide Mega Tree Plantation Drive undertaken by this Authority, in collaboration with the Forest Department, Haryana, concluded successfully with the plantation of an impressive 15,17,985 trees across the State. The plantation drive was launched on the occasion of World Environment Day by Justice Deepak Sibal with the objective of promoting environmental conservation and strengthening public participation in the protection of the environment. The campaign had initially envisaged plantation of approximately 15 lakh trees across Haryana during the monsoon season. The target was not only achieved but surpassed, with 15,17,985 trees planted across the State.

Justice Sibal emphasized the vital importance of environmental conservation and highlighted the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in creating a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come. He underscored that the success of a plantation drive cannot be measured merely by the number of saplings planted; rather, their protection, maintenance and nurturing are equally essential to ensure their healthy growth and long-term survival.  It was further emphasized that the plantation targets fixed by the District Legal Services Authorities should be realistic, achievable and commensurate with the availability of adequate arrangements for the protection, maintenance and regular care of the planted saplings, so as to ensure that the plantation efforts translate into sustainable and lasting environmental benefits.

Under the initiative, all the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) of Haryana undertook plantation activities in Court Complexes, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centres, Judicial Residential Complexes and other suitable public places, in coordination with the Forest Department and other stakeholders. Emphasis was laid on planting indigenous, medicinal, fruit-bearing and shade-giving species, along with ensuring proper care, protection and maintenance of the saplings for their long-term survival.

The successful completion of the drive reflects the concerted efforts of the DLSAs, judicial officers, staff, Forest Department officials, volunteers and other stakeholders who contributed towards making the campaign a State-wide environmental movement.

The achievement of planting 15,17,985 trees across Haryana marks a significant milestone in HALSA’s commitment towards environmental protection and demonstrates the potential of coordinated institutional efforts in addressing issues of ecological sustainability and public welfare.

Chandigarh

Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narender Singh launched a scathing attack on the BJP government over the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam (HKRN), alleging that the corporation, which was established in the name of providing employment to youth, dignity to employees and freedom from the contract system, has today become a means of temporary employment, insecurity and exploitation.

Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, Rao Narender Singh said that after the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam was established in 2021 and began functioning in 2022, the government made tall claims. The government had promised “equal pay for equal work,” an end to the contract system and better facilities for employees, but the ground reality is completely different.
He said that in its 2024 election manifesto, the government claimed to provide around 1.20 lakh jobs, but the actual employment figures raise serious questions over these claims. By February 2026, around 14.63 lakh youth had registered with HKRN, while only 1.13 lakh people had been deployed. Of these, 97,051 were employees who were already working. Therefore, the actual number of new jobs being created is extremely low compared with the employment figures being projected by the government.

Rao Narender Singh said that the number of new deployments was only 7,367 in 2024, 1,034 in 2025 and just 66 so far in 2026. These figures clearly show that despite millions of registered youth, the government has completely failed to provide employment. He said that presenting the limited deployments in departments such as Public Health, Education and Health as large-scale employment generation is nothing more than misleading the youth.

HKRN office to be gheraoed on August 19
Rao Narender Singh announced that a massive dharna and protest would be held on August 19, 2026, outside the HKRN office in Sector 6, Chandigarh, near the Printing Press, under the ‘Yuvaon Ki Goonj’ campaign. Former minister Ashok Arora will be the convenor of the programme. Senior Congress leaders, MPs, MLAs, district and block presidents, along with a large number of employees and unemployed youth, will participate in the protest.
He said that just as Rahul Gandhi has strongly raised the voice of students and youth across the country, Haryana Congress will also continue its struggle for employment, dignity and social security for the state’s youth—from the streets to the Assembly. He also appealed to the media to give due prominence to this important issue concerning youth and employees.

Giving TGT appointments and then removing teachers is playing with the future of youth – Rao Narender Singh

Rao Narender Singh raised the issue of the recruitment of TGT teachers and said that if there was any error in the recruitment process conducted by the Haryana Public Service Commission, the candidates cannot be held responsible for it. Giving candidates appointments first and subsequently cancelling those appointments and removing them is completely unjust.
He said the government must clarify why thousands of candidates are being punished if the mistake occurred at the administrative level. The government should intervene immediately and ensure justice for the affected teachers.

Crime reports every morning; government has failed on law and order: Rao Narender Singh
The Pradesh Congress President also attacked the government over the law-and-order situation in Haryana. He said that frequent reports of crime have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the people of the state. News of murders, violence and other serious criminal incidents is emerging almost every day.
He said the government must take concrete and effective steps to improve law and order, because ensuring that people can live in a safe environment is the first responsibility of any government.

Government must disclose how much has been collected through the 1% service charge and where it was spent: Aditya Surjewala

MLA Aditya Surjewala questioned the HKRN figures, saying that despite 14.63 lakh youth registering by February 2026, only 1.13 lakh people had been deployed. Even among them, 97,051 were already working employees. He said presenting the government’s claim of 1.20 lakh jobs as new employment is an attempt to conceal the reality.
He said HKRN employees are given only a “Deployment Letter” instead of permanent appointment letters. Employees work on contracts for years while remaining under constant threat of losing their jobs. Despite performing equal work, they do not receive the same security and facilities as permanent employees.

Aditya Surjewala asked the government how much money had been collected department-wise through the 1% service charge being charged from employees since 2022 and where it had been spent. He demanded that the government make a department-wise white paper public.

Remove the five-year condition and provide immediate job security to HKRN employees: Aditya Surjewala

He said that the Job Security of Service Bill was passed in November 2024, and at that time he had proposed an amendment to remove the condition requiring five years of service. A large number of temporary employees were regularised during the Congress government’s tenure. HKRN employees should also be provided job security on the same lines.
He said the government has repeatedly made tall claims about job security, but by May 2026, not a single HKRN employee had received the actual benefit of Job Security. He asked the government why the benefit had not reached employees if the law had already been enacted.
BJP dug a mountain and produced just one portal—and even that is hanging
Aditya Surjewala took a dig at the government’s online process, saying employees were initially asked to get their documents and papers verified in their respective departments. Later, the government created a portal, but its condition is such that the server is down in some places, login does not work in others, and OTPs are not being received elsewhere.
He said, “The BJP government is an expert at creating portals, but has completely failed to provide jobs to youth and security to employees. There is a saying—‘The mountain laboured and brought forth a mouse.’ But the BJP government dug a mountain and produced just one portal—and even that is hanging!”
He said HKRN employees do not need a cosmetic online process but respectable wages, permanent employment and genuine job security.
Congress’s key demands
Congress leaders demanded that the government:
End the contract system and implement a permanent employment system.
Issue permanent appointment letters instead of deployment letters.
Conduct regular recruitment against sanctioned posts and create permanent positions.
Release a department-wise white paper on the 1% service charge collected since 2022.
Regularise employees who have been working for a long period.
Make a transparent recruitment calendar, merit list and waiting list available online.
Ensure social security benefits including EPF, ESI, gratuity, accident insurance and health insurance.
Conduct an independent audit of “equal pay for equal work.”
End wage disparities and stop arbitrary termination.
Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narender Singh said that under the guidance of Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, the fight for the rights of HKRN employees and unemployed youth would continue through the ‘Yuvaon Ki Goonj’ campaign.

During the press conference, former Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana and Panchkula MLA Chander Mohan, Panchkula District Congress Committee President Sanjay Chauhan, former MLA Lahri Singh and Haryana Kisan Congress Department President Dharamvir Singh, among other leaders and workers, were present.

Chandigarh

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has directed Pradesh Congress Committees and District Congress Committees to organise a massive district-level march and Satyagraha on the evening of August 14 in protest against the alleged “purification” carried out with Gangajal at the site of a Congress rally in Haldwani. Preparations have also begun in Haryana to organise the programme on a large scale.

Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narender Singh said that the Haldwani incident is not merely an insult to Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, but also an attack on the Constitution of India and the dignity of crores of Indians. He said that declaring a place “impure” and then carrying out its “purification” on the basis of a person’s caste or social identity is extremely unfortunate and shameful.

Rao Narender Singh said that the Congress Party has always fought for the constitutional values of equality, fraternity, social justice and human dignity. He said there is no place in the country for the mindset of untouchability, discrimination and social division. Congress will continue to raise its voice against such regressive thinking through democratic and peaceful means.

He said that, as per the directions of the AICC, every District Congress Committee will organise a massive march and Satyagraha in its respective area on the evening of August 14. The march will proceed to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi or Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, where Congress workers will register their protest against the discriminatory mindset and express solidarity with Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge.

Maximum participation will be ensured in every district – In-charge Sanjay Dutt

Haryana Congress In-charge Sanjay Dutt said that active participation will be ensured from the Pradesh Congress Committee, District and Block Congress Committees, frontal organisations, departments and cells, elected representatives, senior leaders and Congress workers at all levels.

He said that the Congress march and Satyagraha will send a clear message to the country that neither the Congress Party nor the people of India will accept any attempt to undermine the rights to equality and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution.

Sanjay Dutt said that the maximum possible number of Congress workers would participate in the programme in every district and register their protest in a peaceful and democratic manner. He called upon the District and Block Congress Committees to complete preparations for the programme on priority.

He said that the Connect Centre and Control Room would coordinate with the AICC and the Pradesh Congress Committee and continuously monitor and follow up on the effective implementation of the programme in every district.

Sanjay Dutt said that the Congress Party’s position is clear: the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen equal dignity, respect and rights. A mindset that discriminates on the basis of caste, social identity or any other ground is contrary to the fundamental spirit of the Constitution. Congress will continue to fight firmly at every level to protect this fundamental spirit.

MALERKOTLA; 12th August 2026:

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann today inaugurated a new five-storey government school building for girls in Malerkotla, declaring it as a special Independence Day gift for the daughters of Punjab. He said the ₹6.39-crore project was completed for ₹6.34 crore, saving ₹5.25 lakh from the government exchequer, while equipping students with modern facilities including libraries, smart classrooms, common rooms and washrooms.

The new building will bring quality education closer to girls from Malerkotla and surrounding villages, as Punjab’s education model delivers results with 882 government-school students clearing NEET and 361 clearing JEE, while more than 15,000 girls are being provided dedicated bus services to ensure that distance does not interrupt their education. At the same time, 118 Schools of Eminence are being established to expand quality education for children from poor families.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann pointed out that unlike previous governments that merely painted school buildings in the name of Smart Schools, the present government is building an education system that is producing results and has taken Punjab to No. 1 in the country in education. He also warned that the BJP would attempt to spread hatred in Punjab ahead of the elections, urging people not to fall for such provocations.

Sharing a few snippets after inaugurating the school, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, inaugurated the new five-storey government school for girls in Malerkotla. The project was completed at a cost of ₹6.34 crore, saving ₹5.25 lakh from the government exchequer. This is a special gift for our daughters on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day. Through our sustained efforts, Punjab today ranks first in the country in education. The success of 882 students from government schools in NEET and 361 students in JEE is a major example of this transformation. To ensure that girls continue their education without interruption, special bus services are being provided to more than 15,000 girl students. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Addressing a large gathering after inaugurating the building,  CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The new school would provide students with modern educational facilities while also highlighting the Punjab Government’s achievements in education, healthcare, employment, infrastructure and women’s welfare.”

Speaking about Malerkotla’s historical significance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “I am fortunate to be here in the historic town of Malerkotla, which is a land of unity and love. Punjabis in general and Sikhs in particular can never repay the noble gesture made by the Nawab of Malerkotla, who raised his voice against the execution of the Chotta Sahibzadas at Sirhind. The state government is duty-bound to develop this historic town, and I am honoured to dedicate this newly constructed school building here.”

Expressing gratitude to the people for attending despite the scorching heat, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The huge gathering of people gives confidence to the state government to serve them with greater zeal. Today is a joyous occasion as this new school building is being dedicated to the people. This school will enhance facilities for our students and impart quality education, which is the main focus of the state government.”

Recalling the condition of the school during his tenure as an MP, the Chief Minister said, “When I was an MP, this school used to run in two shifts during winters. Taking the wards back home was difficult and the building was completely unsafe. We have now completed the construction of this building at a cost of ₹6.34 crore, saving ₹5.25 lakh against the approved cost of ₹6.39 crore. The money saved can be utilised for other development works in the school, including RO systems, water filters, smart classrooms and other facilities.”

Describing the new building as a gift for the daughters of Malerkotla, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This school is dedicated to our daughters on the 80th Independence Day. The five-storey building covers an area of 54,000 square feet and will have libraries, washrooms and all the modern facilities required for a good school. Students from Malerkotla and nearby villages will now be able to access quality education closer to their homes.”

Highlighting Punjab’s transformation in education, the Chief Minister stated, “When I took oath of office in 2022, Punjab was at number 27 in education. Today, Punjab is number one. We have surpassed Kerala and other states, and this is the result of strenuous efforts by the state government, including teacher training programmes, Schools of Eminence and other initiatives.”

Pointing to the performance of government-school students, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In 2021, only 80 government-school students had cleared the coveted NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) examination. In 2026, this number increased nearly 11 times to 882. This is the difference between our governance and those who never bothered about schools and education.”

Speaking about the changing importance of education, he said, “The time has come when people will be considered wealthy not by the money they possess or the showrooms they own, but by the educational qualifications of their children. We are working to ensure that children from ordinary families get the opportunity to fulfil their dreams.”

Highlighting the government’s initiative to regulate private-school fees, the Chief Minister said, “In the recently concluded Vidhan Sabha session, the state government brought a law benefiting more than 32 lakh students in 7,800 private schools across Punjab. These schools have been directed not to increase their fees by more than five percent in a year.”

Speaking about parent participation in government schools, he said, “For the first time in the history of Punjab, Parent-Teacher Meetings were organised in government schools across the state, with more than 24 lakh parents participating. This reflects the Government’s commitment to involving parents in the education of their children.”

Highlighting healthcare reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We have opened 1,090 Aam Aadmi Clinics across Punjab to revamp the healthcare system, and more than 5 crore people have benefited from these clinics. In another major initiative for the residents of this historic town, the state government will soon open Nawab Sher Khan Medical College in Malerkotla. Along with providing quality treatment, the medical college will generate employment opportunities for the youth of the area.”

Talking about infrastructure development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our government is constructing more than 43,000 kilometres of rural link roads across Punjab to facilitate the people. We are also making tireless efforts to make Punjab drug-free, and the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ has already broken the backbone of the drug menace.”

Speaking about Punjab’s sporting legacy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab is set to script a historic chapter in Indian hockey as the state is preparing to host the prestigious Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for the first time ever in October this year. This event will further strengthen Punjab’s identity as the cradle of Indian hockey and inspire a new generation of youth to take to sports. Punjab has always been the nursery of hockey, and hosting such an international tournament on our soil will inspire our youth to connect with the sports fields.”

Attributing Punjab’s progress to the AAP government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This is happening because an honest government is at the helm of affairs in the state with a positive and progressive outlook. Unlike Congress, where leaders are always fighting with each other for power, our Government is focused on Punjab’s development. The people of Malerkotla also witnessed the same kind of theatrics during the Congress party’s meeting here.”

Highlighting progress in agriculture and irrigation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab is witnessing overall progress and prosperity in every sphere, benefiting every section of society. Unlike in the past, our farmers are now getting power during the daytime, which has reduced their ordeal. When I assumed office, only 22 percent of canal water was being used in the state. Today, this has increased to 88 percent.”

Talking about employment and investment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our government has provided more than 69,000 government jobs to the youth completely on the basis of merit, without any recommendation or corruption. Due to our concerted efforts, major industrial giants from across the world are making a beeline to invest in Punjab. Japanese steel giant Aichi has invested ₹1,100 crore in the state, while Tata Steel has established its second-biggest steel plant in Punjab near Ludhiana after Jamshedpur.”

Highlighting the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The ambitious scheme provides cashless medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh to every resident family in Punjab. Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage. People have already availed free treatment worth more than ₹937 crore, significantly easing their financial burden while ensuring access to quality healthcare.”

Speaking about the Maavan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, the Chief Minister stated, “For the first time, we have launched the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, under which all women of Punjab above 18 years of age are eligible for benefits. SC women receive ₹1,500 per month, while every woman from Punjab receives ₹1,000 per month. The total target is more than one crore women, and 72.13 lakh beneficiaries are already receiving the benefits. The scheme is benefiting more than 97 percent of women, making it one of the most comprehensive women-centric social protection initiatives in the country.”

Speaking on the need to protect Punjab’s communal harmony, the Chief Minister said, “People must beware of fissiparous forces that want to divide Punjabis on communal lines to attain political power. Punjab is a very fertile land where every seed can grow, but the seed of hatred cannot grow here because our bond of communal harmony is very strong. The BJP’s strategy is to make people fight and riot because this is their bread and butter. But the people of Punjab will never allow these nefarious designs to succeed.”

Highlighting Punjab’s tradition of brotherhood, he said, “Punjab is a land of religious harmony and freedom. People here celebrate festivals together and stand with each other in good and bad times. Punjabis have very strong social bonds, and divisive forces cannot break this unity. The nefarious designs of the BJP will never succeed in Punjab.”

Talking about the work being done by the state government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our Government is opening new schools and hospitals, constructing roads and making every effort for the well-being of society. Congress and Akalis, however, remain concerned only about themselves and their families and have little concern for Punjab and Punjabis.”

Taking potshots at the Akali Dal Chief Sukhbir Badal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Sukhbir Singh Badal should stop living in a fool’s paradise. The days are gone when these parties used to play musical chairs and wait for their turn in power. They safeguarded each other’s interests while in power, due to which their misdeeds were never exposed.”

He affirmed, “Now the people have elected AAP, and the broom is cleansing the political system of Punjab. Sukhbir may never get another turn in power, but the time will certainly come when his entire family will be in jail for their misdeeds. The sins of the Badal family are unpardonable, and the people will never forgive them for the crimes committed against Punjab and its people.”

CHANDIGARH/FEROZEPUR/BATHINDA, August 12:

          Continuing his whirlwind tour for the third consecutive day to review preparations for the upcoming Independence Day-2026 as mandated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on Wednesday directed officers to maintain heightened vigilance as he visited Ferozepur and Bathinda to chair comprehensive Range-Level Law and Order Review Meetings.

          “I’ve directed officers/officials to maintain heightened vigilance through strengthened patrolling, enhanced surveillance, preventive policing, effective crowd management, and a swift, coordinated response to any emerging challenge,” he said.

          In Ferozepur, DGP Gaurav Yadav reviewed the security preparedness of Ferozepur and Faridkot Ranges, with a focused assessment of the districts of Ferozepur, Tarn Taran, Fazilka, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Moga.

          As part of ground-level verification, the DGP also personally checked the Hi-tech Naka at Talwandi Bhai in Ferozepur.

          After completing security reviews of Ferozepur and Faridkot Ranges, the DGP visited Bathinda and chaired a comprehensive security review meeting with officers of Bathinda Range. The review was focused on the Independence Day policing plan, visible and effective deployment, security at celebration venues and public congregation points, and preparedness for every eventuality, he said.

          Marking a significant boost to technical policing, DGP Gaurav Yadav also inaugurated the renovated state-of-the-art Integrated Command and Control Centre (I3C) of Bathinda Police built at a cost of ₹2.75 crores.

          The upgraded facility integrates emergency response to 112 calls, city-wide CCTV surveillance featuring 282 cameras at 59 strategic locations, wireless connectivity, video analytics, and real-time crime monitoring data, he said, while adding that the new centre will boost police technical capability in Bathinda and act as a force multiplier.

          Reaffirming the commitment of Punjab Police to ensure a safe and secure Independence Day celebration, the DGP emphasised proactive, people-centric policing to ensure that citizens celebrate national day across the state with confidence, pride, and a strong sense of security.

          The review meetings were attended by key officials including IGP Faridkot Range Nilambari Jagdale, DIG Bathinda Range Harjeet Singh, DIG Ferozepur Range Snehdeep Sharma, SSP Mansa Bhagirath Meena, SSP Bathinda Dr Jyoti Yadav, SSP Moga Sartaj Chahal, SSP Sangrur Ravjot Grewal, SSP Tarn Taran Surendra Lamba, SSP Sri Muktsar Sahib Abhimanyu Rana, SSP Ferozepur Bhupinder Singh Sidhu, SSP Fazilka Gagan Ajit Singh, SSP Faridkot Gurbans Singh and Staff Officer to DGP Punjab Rishabh Bhola.