Chandigarh, August 23: The Punjab Congress is intensifying its efforts to prepare a ‘People’s Manifesto’ for the upcoming assembly elections. MP Dr. Amar Singh stated that the manifesto will incorporate the views of all societal segments, aiming to build public trust. He confidently asserted that the next government in Punjab will be formed by Congress.
Dr. Amar Singh revealed that a recent meeting of the manifesto committee was conducted online due to the lockdown in Punjab. Key participants included Amritsar MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Jalandhar MLA and former minister Parghat Singh, and former MLA Hardayal Singh Kamboj. Notably, committee member Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa could not attend due to being abroad.
During the meeting, the committee discussed strategies for drafting the manifesto. The Congress aims for the document to reflect the expectations and suggestions of the common people, rather than merely serving as a party document. To achieve this, consultations will be held with farmers, laborers, employees, retirees, military personnel, industrialists, students, educators, social organizations, and economists.
Amar Singh emphasized that the party will first engage with people in major cities and key regions, followed by a broader outreach for suggestions. Input will also be sought from senior Congress leaders. The manifesto is intended to be a credible document, ensuring that promises made are practical and achievable, fostering public confidence in Congress’s commitments.
When asked about a potential alliance between the Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP, Amar Singh stated that both parties have previously been in coalition, and Congress remains unfazed. He recalled that during the 2017 assembly elections and the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress successfully challenged them and defeated many of their candidates. If the Akali Dal and BJP reunite, they will need to address public concerns, particularly regarding issues like the farmers’ movement and MSP.
Regarding the legal notice sent by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s wife to former Justice Ranjit Singh over alleged accusations, Amar Singh clarified that it is a matter between the two parties, with no connection to Congress or its leaders.
In response to BJP’s claims that Rahul Gandhi‘s protests are mere theatrics and an attempt to divert attention from the Vande Mataram issue, Amar Singh launched a strong attack on BJP and RSS. He highlighted Congress’s historical ties to Vande Mataram and the freedom movement, urging BJP to reflect on its own history before questioning Congress. He pointed out that pressing issues like education, paper leaks, employment, poverty, and rising inequality are at the forefront of national concern.
On the topic of differing opinions among leaders within the party, Amar Singh affirmed that Congress is a large and democratic party, where leaders and workers have the right to express their views. He noted that leaders present their opinions on various issues to the high command, which listens to their concerns.
Regarding Rahul Gandhi’s upcoming visit to Punjab, Amar Singh indicated that, according to his information, the visit is likely to occur at the end of August or the first week of September. He expressed hope that Rahul Gandhi would visit soon to address minor party issues and accelerate preparations for the upcoming elections.
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