Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab CM Mann leads Republic Day celebrations, unfurls Tricolor in Hoshiarpur; View Pics
Chandigarh Was, Is and Will Remain Punjab’s Capital: CM Mann
Babushahi Bureau
Hoshiarpur (Punjab), January 26, 2026: Unfurling the national Tricolour at the Republic Day celebrations in Hoshiarpur, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann firmly asserted that Punjab’s constitutional rights would not be compromised and that the state would continue its legal and constitutional battle to safeguard its capital, water rights, Panjab University and other legitimate claims.
Recalling Punjab’s unparalleled sacrifices in India’s freedom struggle and its enduring role as the nation’s “Food Bowl and Sword Arm,” the Chief Minister said it was deeply unfortunate that Punjab has been deprived of its rightful capital and a separate High Court since Independence. He made it clear that any conspiracy to weaken Punjab’s claims over Chandigarh and other rights would never be allowed to succeed.
“Despite making the greatest sacrifices for the nation, Punjab does not have its own capital. Chandigarh was, is and will always remain an integral part of Punjab, and the state government will make all-out efforts to reclaim it,” the Chief Minister asserted.
Highlighting governance linked with heritage and faith, CM Mann recalled the historic commemoration of the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the declaration of Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities, and announced that the 650th Parkash Parv of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji will be celebrated through sustained state-level programmes from February 1, 2026, to February 20, 2027.
The Chief Minister detailed key governance initiatives, including an aggressive crackdown on drugs, gangsters and narco-drones under Yudh Nashean Virudh and Gangsteraan Te Vaar, universal healthcare coverage of up to ₹10 lakh for all families, and the transparent recruitment of over 63,000 youth into government jobs without bribes or recommendations. He also highlighted the success of the Sadak Surakhiya Force, which has led to a sharp reduction in road accident fatalities.
Expressing concern over changes to the MGNREGA scheme, CM Mann warned that the revised structure would adversely impact Scheduled Caste workers, women and landless families, and said Punjab was fighting the issue through legislative and legal means. He also criticised the Centre for withholding Rural Development Fund (RDF) dues meant for rural infrastructure.
On economic growth, the Chief Minister said Punjab has attracted investments worth ₹1.5 lakh crore since 2022, generating 5.2 lakh jobs, and announced that the Punjab Investment Summit will be held from March 13 to 15.
Paying rich tributes to freedom fighters, soldiers and the architect of the Indian Constitution, Babasaheb Dr B.R. Ambedkar, CM Mann said the spirit to resist injustice is deeply ingrained in every Punjabi. He reiterated that divisive forces and criminal elements would be dealt with firmly to maintain peace, unity and brotherhood in the state.
Earlier, the Chief Minister inspected the parade, took the salute from various contingents and witnessed cultural performances. He also felicitated freedom fighters, achievers and citizens for their contribution to society, and distributed tricycles to the differently abled and sewing machines to needy women.