CHANDIGARH, MAY 2 – Senior leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a coordinated critique of the opposition on Friday, following a special Punjab Vidhan Sabha session convened to mark Labour Day. Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema described the conduct of the Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) as a reflection of an anti-poor and opportunistic mindset that contrasts with the pro-people policies of the current administration.
Minister Cheema specifically targeted the BJP-led Central Government regarding the recent ₹994 increase in the price of commercial gas cylinders. He affirmed that the timing of the hike, occurring immediately after the conclusion of elections, was a calculated move. “A ₹994 hike in commercial gas cylinder prices is a direct assault on workers and small businesses,” Cheema stated, noting that the decision will create a significant burden for the food industry and labourers who rely on affordable dining options.
The Cabinet Minister also criticized the Congress party for its decision to walk out during the session dedicated to labour rights. He maintained that the exit reflected a mindset hostile toward Dalits and the impoverished. Cheema declared that the Congress was attempting to evade accountability while simultaneously trying to defame Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann through baseless demands for medical tests.
Adding to the discourse, AAP Punjab State President and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora noted that the session was intended to address vital issues, including anti-sacrilege laws and worker protections. He asserted that while the BJP failed to attend, the Congress chose to disrupt the proceedings. “Congress has stabbed workers in the back and attempted to suppress the government’s message through chaos and baseless allegations,” Arora maintained.
Other party leaders joined the rebuttal, with MLA Labh Singh Ugoke stating that the AAP government has successfully streamlined SC scholarship deliveries that were previously subject to embezzlement under the Congress regime. Furthermore, Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO noted the integrity of the working class, stating that while humble labourers consistently repay their debts, major economic offenders have been allowed to flee the country with public funds.
