Harpal Cheema slams PM Modi, says Punjab visit was meant to ‘Spread Hatred, Not Deliver Justice’; Watch Video
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 17, 2026: Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-led Centre, alleging that the Prime Minister's visit to Punjab was aimed at "spreading hatred" rather than addressing the state's long-pending concerns.
Addressing a press conference, Cheema claimed that the Prime Minister failed to announce any relief for Punjab's pending financial dues and instead attempted to mislead the people by highlighting development projects. He alleged that despite expectations, Modi remained silent on issues such as the state's pending funds, including the Rural Development Fund (RDF) and mandi fee dues.
Cheema also accused the BJP of hypocrisy on corruption, alleging that the party had failed to address alleged financial irregularities related to donations made for the Ram Temple. He said it was unfortunate for BJP leaders to lecture others on corruption while facing such allegations themselves.
Defending the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, the Finance Minister said Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had fulfilled all major guarantees promised to the people within four-and-a-half years.
He highlighted the government's initiatives, including 300 units of free electricity, a health insurance scheme of up to ₹10 lakh, teacher training programmes in Singapore and premier Indian institutions, merit-based recruitment of over 66,000 government employees, and financial assistance for families of martyrs.
Targeting the previous Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP government, Cheema alleged that Punjab suffered widespread corruption, the drug menace, and sacrilege incidents during its tenure. He claimed the current AAP government was taking decisive action against drug trafficking and had introduced stricter measures to prevent sacrilege.
The Finance Minister further accused the Centre of discriminating against Punjab by withholding financial assistance and delaying the release of the state's rightful funds. Referring to flood relief, he claimed Punjab had sought ₹20,000 crore in assistance but received only a fraction of the amount requested.
Cheema also presented figures to defend the Mann government's development record, claiming that the current government has made capital investments of around ₹55,000 crore, significantly higher than previous governments. He said the funds were being utilised for schools, hospitals, roads, sports infrastructure, and irrigation projects.
Concluding his remarks, Cheema alleged that despite the Prime Minister's visit, Punjab's farmers, traders, youth, and other sections of society were left disappointed as no concrete announcements were made to address the state's key demands. He maintained that the Bhagwant Mann government remains committed to Punjab's development and welfare.