Phillaur witnessed a large political gathering on Thursday as the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) organised its ‘Punjab Bachao’ rally, drawing the presence of senior party leadership, including Sukhbir Singh Badal and Bikram Singh Majithia.Addressing the rally, Badal launched a sharp attack on both the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing the current government of administrative failures and financial mismanagement.In his speech, Badal alleged that the condition of roads across Punjab has deteriorated significantly, claiming that most roads are in a broken state and that no substantial development has taken place over the past decade.He further accused the AAP government of spending Rs 4,500 crore on advertisements over the past four years. He also alleged that expenses related to travel by Arvind Kejriwal are being borne by the Punjab government.Taking a dig at Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann, Badal claimed that Mann had occupied the commissioner’s residence in Jalandhar and alleged that the upcoming birthday celebration of Mann’s daughter on March 28 would cost Rs 10 crore, with expenses purportedly being covered by the state government. He further remarked that governance in Punjab is effectively being run by Arvind Kejriwal, while Mann’s role is limited.Highlighting the achievements of previous Akali Dal governments, Badal stated that the party has historically worked in the interest of Punjab’s people. He cited the construction of 190 railway flyovers and the provision of approximately 13.5 lakh tube well connections out of a total 15 lakh as key accomplishments during their tenure.Making major announcements for the future, Badal said that if the Akali Dal returns to power in 2027, strict measures would be implemented to prevent industrial and sewage waste from entering Punjab’s rivers. He also promised the revival of the Kabaddi World Cup and initiatives to promote Punjabi culture and rural sports, including traditional games and livestock fairs. Additionally, he assured that all village streets would be paved with cement.Focusing on welfare measures, the party president announced that the Atta-Dal scheme would be reinstated within the first week of forming the government, offering wheat flour at Rs 4 per kg and pulses at Rs 20 per kg. He also promised financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh for the marriage of economically weaker girls, an increase in old-age pension to Rs 3,100 per month, and the provision of one tube well connection to every farmer.Badal further announced that 75 percent of jobs in Punjab would be reserved for local youth and that interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh would be provided to encourage entrepreneurship. In the education sector, he stated that 50 percent of seats in medical and engineering colleges would be reserved for students from poor backgrounds, with the government bearing their expenses.The rally concluded with the party reiterating its commitment to regaining power in the 2027 state elections and implementing the announced policies.