Ludhiana, March 17 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday asserted that the era of industrial harassment is over, with the state government now acting as a facilitator for businesses as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal met industrialists in Ludhiana today to discuss their concerns and address industry-related issues.
Addressing industrialists at the Sanatkaar Milni event, where he was joined by AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, Mann said previous regimes treated the industrial sector unfairly, whereas his government is actively promoting and encouraging investment.
“Unlike before, no one is harassing industrialists. We are making every effort to support them, and Punjab is now leading in industrial development,” he stated.
Mann credited Kejriwal with bringing key governance issues like education, health, and employment to the forefront, forcing traditional parties to shift their focus.
“AAP works on a mission, whereas previous governments worked on commission,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister said his government is fostering direct engagement with citizens, unlike previous governments that relied on one-way communication.
“Today, common people interact directly with the Chief Minister and ministers to shape policies,” he said, calling it an unprecedented shift in governance.
Recalling his long-standing association with Ludhiana, Mann described it as the state’s economic backbone.
“This city provides livelihoods to millions. We are committed to its development,” he said, referring to Ludhiana as his karam bhoomi.
Mann also stressed the need for agricultural value addition, advocating stronger ties between the industrial and farming sectors to drive Punjab’s economic growth.
Criticizing Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, Mann accused him of failing to address Ludhiana’s industrial concerns.
“Despite hailing from this city, he has done nothing for its industries. Business leaders seek state government intervention in railway matters because they have no confidence in him,” he stated.
Mann further took a swipe at traditional political leaders, saying those who once lived in palatial houses have been ousted by the people.
“They never cared for the common man, and now they are nowhere to be seen,” he quipped.
He also dismissed Congress claims that AAP legislators were in contact with them, calling it a desperate attempt to stay relevant.
“Instead of daydreaming about defections, Congress should focus on keeping its own MLAs together,” he said, adding that such statements were mere publicity stunts.
