Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday addressed a massive rally in Moga, using a blend of humour, satire, and sharp political attacks to seek a fresh mandate for 2027 while highlighting his government’s achievements and announcing new initiatives.Targeting opposition parties—Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiromani Akali Dal—the Chief Minister delivered a sarcastic address, mocking their leadership and accusing them of being disconnected from ground realities.In a witty jibe, Mann said leaders who keep wearing an overcoat or tight pyjama could not understand the pain of farmers irrigating crops at midnight.Referring to the ongoing strike by commission agents (arhtiyas), Mann said the state government would ensure smooth procurement of wheat and protect farmers’ interests. He announced that arhtiyas who do not join the strike would be given preference in paddy allotment during the next kharif season.He further stated that cooperative societies have been identified to step in and handle wheat procurement wherever required. “Every grain will be properly procured and lifted,” he asserted, urging commission agents not to escalate tensions amid already challenging weather conditions.In a key announcement, Mann said the government would launch a new scheme from April 13 to ensure the division (taksim) of agricultural land within 30 days of application—aimed at reducing long-pending disputes among farmers. Projecting governance as the core plank for 2027, Mann listed major achievements of his government, which include free electricity to over 90% of households, around 65,000 jobs provided, carpeting of 43,000 km of roads, and assured 8 hours of power supply to agriculture, including daytime supply.He also claimed a major shift towards canal irrigation, stating its usage had risen from 22 per cent to 78 per cent, with a target of 90 per cent in the coming kharif season. The Chief Minister said underground electricity wiring is being promoted to prevent crop fires caused by sparking.Citing an example from his village, he noted that over 1,100 electricity poles in the agricultural fields are being replaced with underground fiber wiring and added that the government aims to expand this across the state. Calling education the “panacea for all ills,” Mann said the government is strengthening the school system to ensure better opportunities for children.He also announced that biometric fingerprint requirements would be removed for availing government schemes, citing difficulties faced by labourers whose fingerprints often fade due to manual work. The rally saw Mann at his satirical best, taking potshots at national leaders of Congress for their lack of familiarity with local leadership, while accusing opposition parties of uniting only to target AAP. He also highlighted welfare initiatives such as health insurance coverage of Rs 10 lakh for 32 lakh families and mentioned steps like Mohalla Clinics and the removal of toll plazas.Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who also addressed the gathering, said the large turnout in Moga—considered the central belt of Punjab—was a clear indication that the Aam Aadmi Party would return to power in 2027 with a thumping majority.


