San Jose, CA – The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has expressed grave concern over the current state of governance in Punjab, as Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his cabinet prioritize political campaigns in Delhi over the pressing issues facing the people of Punjab. Satnam Singh Chahal, Executive Director of NAPA, has strongly condemned the government’s neglect, calling it an outright betrayal of the citizens’ trust.
“Punjab is in a state of governance crisis. The Chief Minister is busy enjoying cricket matches and leisure, while most of the state’s MLAs and ministers have been sent to Delhi on the directions of Arvind Kejriwal to participate in election campaigning. This has left Punjab without effective leadership at a time when the state is grappling with severe law and order issues and stalled development projects,” said Chahal.
The deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab is a cause for alarm. Incidents of crime, including gang violence and drug trafficking, are increasing, while citizens feel unsafe and abandoned by their government. “The government’s absence is emboldening criminal elements, leaving the public to fend for themselves. This is unacceptable,” added Chahal.
Key developmental initiatives in Punjab, including those in agriculture, health, and education, have come to a standstill. Administrative paralysis is hindering progress and creating uncertainty among citizens and investors alike.
Chahal criticized the Aam Aadmi Party’s decision to divert Punjab’s ministers and MLAs to Delhi, stating, “The AAP government has turned Punjab into a political satellite of its national ambitions. The people of Punjab elected their leaders to address the state’s issues, not to campaign in Delhi. This negligence has left Punjab effectively governorless.”
NAPA urges Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his cabinet to immediately return to Punjab and address the state’s mounting challenges. The association also calls on the AAP leadership to prioritize governance in Punjab over political campaigns elsewhere.
“The people of Punjab deserve better. They deserve a government that is focused on their safety, development, and prosperity. We will continue to raise our voice and advocate for the rights of Punjabis until these issues are addressed,” Chahal stated. NAPA encourages citizens, community leaders, and opposition parties to join in demanding accountability and immediate action from the Punjab government.