Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday accused the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab of engaging in “election-time freebie politics,” claiming that the public in the state has grown disillusioned with the administration led by Bhagwant Mann. Speaking to reporters in Chandigarh, Saini alleged that recent welfare announcements were driven by electoral considerations rather than long-term policy objectives.
Responding to the Punjab government’s recent budget proposal to provide financial assistance to women — ₹1,500 for those belonging to the Scheduled Caste category and ₹1,000 for others — Saini said such measures were being introduced with upcoming Assembly elections in mind. He argued that the announcements would not translate into political gains, asserting that many voters in Punjab are now looking for an alternative leadership.
The Haryana Chief Minister also criticised what he described as a pattern of populist promises by successive governments in Punjab. According to Saini, both previous Congress administrations and the current AAP government have relied on distributing benefits or “freebies” during election periods to attract voters. In this context, he also took a swipe at former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, claiming that similar campaign strategies had been used in earlier elections.
Also Read: Punjab Farmers Stuck in Wheat-Paddy Trap as Budget Fails to Back Diversification Seriously
Saini further alleged that the Punjab government had created hurdles in implementing the Ayushman Bharat programme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He claimed that eligible beneficiaries in Punjab were facing difficulties accessing the scheme’s healthcare benefits due to the state government’s approach.
The Haryana Chief Minister also raised concerns over recent tensions during his visit to Punjab, stating that certain programmes had allegedly faced obstruction by the state administration. He said that Haryana always accords visiting leaders the full respect and protocol due to their office, including when the Punjab Chief Minister visits the neighbouring state.
Saini additionally criticised reports of tear gas being used against women employees who were protesting on the occasion of International Women's Day. Describing the incident as unfortunate, he said such actions send the wrong message on a day meant to recognise and uphold the rights and contributions of women.
Also Read: Punjab Government to Introduce Monthly Rs 1,000 Scheme for Women