The Chief Minister highlighted the ongoing security challenges faced by Punjab as a border state.

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has raised serious concerns about the ongoing delimitation process, accusing the BJP-led Union government of using it as a tactic to eliminate political opponents. Speaking to journalists on Saturday, Mann criticized the execution of the delimitation exercise, suggesting that it was being carried out in a manner that undermines democracy.

The Chief Minister, who was addressing the media on the sidelines of a ceremony to send off 72 teachers to Finland, emphasized that the approach adopted by the Union government raises doubts about the BJP’s true intentions. According to Mann, the delimitation process appears to be designed to reduce the number of seats in states where the BJP and its allies are weak, while increasing the number of seats in regions where the party’s divisive agenda is gaining traction.

Mann stated that political parties with shared values and interests would come together to oppose what he termed as the Union government's "repressive" actions aimed at stifling democratic processes.

Security Concerns in Punjab

In response to another question, the Chief Minister highlighted the ongoing security challenges faced by Punjab as a border state, citing the efforts of hostile forces trying to disrupt the peace and stability of the region. However, he reassured the public that the Punjab Police, which has been modernized with advanced investigative techniques and technology, continues to thwart such attempts.

Mann expressed confidence that the Punjab Police would maintain its strong tradition of professional service and uphold the state's unity, integrity, and sovereignty.

He also referred to the recent incident in Amritsar, attributing it to forces seeking to destabilize the state. He assured the people of Punjab that the state government would not allow these forces to succeed, and all such conspiracies would be thwarted. The Chief Minister further asserted that the law and order situation in Punjab remains far better than in many other states, due to the vigilance of the Punjab Police.

Efforts Against Drug and Terrorism Challenges

Mann also noted that Punjab has long been a victim of cross-border terrorism and has been on the front lines in the national battle against drugs and terrorism. The use of drones to smuggle drugs, weapons, and other contraband into the state from across the border has been a growing concern.

However, the Chief Minister proudly stated that the state’s aggressive anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nasheyan Virudh, has significantly curtailed smuggling activities through drones. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in this fight, noting that Punjab’s proactive stance against drug trafficking is yielding positive results.

The event was also attended by Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains and other dignitaries.