‘From Rangla to Kangla’: Pawan Dewan slams AAP Govt over rising Punjab debt
Babushahi Bureau
Nawanshahr (Punjab), April 29, 2026: Senior Congress leader Pawan Dewan launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, accusing it of pushing Punjab deeper into a debt crisis and weakening the state’s economy.
Dewan alleged that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had promised to transform Punjab into a “Rangla Punjab” but instead turned it into “Kangla Punjab,” referring to worsening financial conditions over the past four years.
Highlighting the state’s debt figures, he claimed that Punjab’s outstanding debt, which stood at around ₹2.82 lakh crore at the end of 2021–22, is projected to rise to nearly ₹4.17 lakh crore by the close of 2025–26.
He further alleged that continued borrowing could push the debt to ₹4.47 lakh crore by 2026–27.
Dewan criticized the government’s financial management, stating that heavy reliance on loans and market borrowings reflects a lack of long-term economic planning.
He claimed that in April alone, the government raised substantial funds through multiple borrowings, adding to the fiscal burden.
Accusing the government of mismanagement, Dewan said the state exchequer is under severe strain, with no clear roadmap to generate revenue or reduce debt.
He also alleged that the government has been selling state-owned properties and panchayat land under schemes like the Optimum Use of Vacant Government Land (OUVGL) to manage finances.
The Congress leader further claimed that despite the economic challenges, the government continues to spend heavily on advertisements and publicity, while struggling to meet essential financial obligations.
Dewan concluded by saying that the people of Punjab had high expectations from the current dispensation, but the government has failed to revive the economy or address the mounting debt crisis.