Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
BJP's Arvind Khanna calls for white paper on Punjab's economic crisis
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, November 12, 2024 – Arvind Khanna, State Vice President of Punjab BJP and former MLA, criticized the Punjab government for exacerbating the state's financial crisis with additional burdens.
In a statement, Khanna expressed concern over the AAP government's appointment of Chief Financial Advisor Arvind Modi and Advisor Sebastian James, who have been granted Cabinet and Secretary-level facilities. He argued that these high-cost appointments would impose further financial strain on the state.
"These appointments reveal the failure of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's government to implement policies that serve Punjab’s interests," Khanna said.
He highlighted that AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal had pledged to revitalize Punjab’s economy, but instead, additional economic pressures are being placed on the state.Khanna also noted that AAP’s advertising campaigns and air travel expenses have already weighed heavily on the state’s exchequer.
He emphasized that while AAP promised new revenue streams, Punjab’s treasury continues to rely solely on loans, with no significant revenue from the liquor policy, electricity, or mining.Calling for transparency, Khanna demanded a white paper on Punjab’s financial situation.
He pointed out that the central government recently allocated ₹3,220 crore to Punjab from tax revenue, intended for the state’s welfare, but claims this funding is being misused under Kejriwal’s influence.