Will Punjab Have a ‘Super CM’?
The Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government has often been accused of taking directives from Delhi, with many believing that key decisions are made by AAP’s top leadership. While some argue that Mann has emerged stronger following the recent electoral outcomes, others within the party speculate that Punjab may now have a ‘Super CM.’ This belief stems from the presence of Arvind Kejriwal’s loyalists in Mann’s close circle, with the latest addition being Bibhav Kumar. A former aide of Delhi’s ex-CM, Kumar was recently granted Z-plus security by the Punjab Police—a move that sparked strong criticism from the opposition.
Opposition Raises Concerns
Despite Leader of Opposition Pratap Bajwa’s claim that 30 AAP MLAs are in touch with the Congress, the ruling party has dismissed these allegations. However, many acknowledge that the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections may be challenging for AAP. The ‘Delhi Model’ that won Punjab’s trust has now been rejected by Delhi voters, raising concerns that a similar trend could unfold in Punjab.
Mann’s Vision for a ‘Punjab Model’
Unfazed by recent developments, Bhagwant Mann spoke to the media outside Delhi’s Kapurthala House, reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling electoral promises. In a significant shift, the Punjab CM moved away from referencing AAP’s much-touted ‘Delhi Model’ and, for the first time, spoke about a ‘Punjab Model.’ He asserted that Punjab would set an example for the nation.
“We will not break any guarantees given to Punjab. In fact, we have worked on issues we never even promised—be it toll tax reductions or scrapping multiple pensions for legislators,” said Mann. Even his ministers acknowledge that post-Delhi’s defeat, delivering on promises has become more crucial for the party in Punjab. With two years left until the elections, both allies and opponents are gearing up to capitalize on the situation.
Internal and External Attacks on AAP
Reacting to AAP’s electoral loss in Delhi, party MLA and Mann’s critic Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh stated that the defeat reflects poor governance in Punjab. He argued that the state government has failed to address key concerns, including law and order. Notably, Singh skipped a crucial meeting in Delhi convened by Kejriwal, dismissing it as a mere headcount exercise.
Criticism has also come from Congress MLA Pargat Singh, who accused AAP of misleading the public with false promises. “The Delhi results have exposed AAP’s lies. Punjab’s situation is no different—governance is dictated from Delhi, leaving the CM as just a figurehead,” said Singh. He also highlighted Punjab’s deteriorating law and order, questioning the efficiency of the Home Ministry, which is directly handled by Mann.
Accusations of Remote Control from Delhi
Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit Cheema called for an end to the alleged power-sharing arrangement between Mann and Kejriwal. “Mann has never been in full control; his office has always been operated remotely from Delhi. Now, with central AAP leaders free from Delhi’s governance, they are expected to intervene more in Punjab,” he said. Cheema also warned of financial instability, claiming that the state lacks sufficient funds to run government operations.
The opposition has further accused the AAP government of using law enforcement agencies for political vendettas. Several former Congress leaders, including Sukhpal Khaira and Bharat Bhushan Ashu, have faced legal action under the Punjab administration. However, CM Mann has denied any misuse of power, asserting that all actions are based on legal grounds.
AAP’s Achievements in Punjab
Despite facing criticism, the Punjab government has made notable strides:
- 600 units of free electricity for residents
- 50,000 government jobs created
- 881 AAP Mohalla Clinics and 118 Schools of Eminence established
- Closure of 17 toll plazas to reduce travel costs
- ‘Rangla Punjab’ initiative launched to promote cultural heritage
- ₹1 crore compensation for families of fallen soldiers and police personnel
- Formation of a road safety force with 100+ Toyota cars for the police
Key Challenges for AAP in Punjab
Despite these accomplishments, the government faces several pressing issues:
- Allegations of Punjab being controlled by Delhi
- Unfulfilled promise of ₹1,000 per month for women
- Rising concerns over law and order, gang violence, and terror-related incidents
- Economic instability and unfulfilled revenue targets from mining
- Failure to deliver justice in sacrilege cases
What Lies Ahead?
The Punjab government continues to clash with the central government over rural development funds and National Highway Maintenance Funds. Additionally, farmers in the state are demanding a legal guarantee for MSP, adding to the administration’s woes.
The internal discord within AAP, triggered by its defeat in Delhi, could have far-reaching implications for Punjab. The biggest challenge for AAP is ensuring that Delhi’s declining image does not overshadow its governance in Punjab. As the 2027 elections approach, the party must navigate these challenges while staying true to its promises.
