Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday urged citizens to join the collective fight against drugs and corruption, calling it a shared responsibility to safeguard the future of coming generations. Speaking at an event organised by the Aggarwal Sabha, Mann said the state government has launched a decisive campaign—Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh—to eliminate the drug menace, but stressed that its success hinges on public support.
He reiterated that the war on drugs involves breaking supply chains, arresting major traffickers, rehabilitating victims, and demolishing properties acquired through drug money. Mann emphasised that this battle is not just a government initiative, but a mass movement that requires active participation from every citizen.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to Punjab’s youth, he shared that over 54,000 merit-based jobs have been provided, empowering the next generation. He also reaffirmed his stand on protecting Punjab’s rights on issues such as water sharing.
AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal commended Mann’s government for its aggressive approach towards drug control, pointing out that previous governments often protected drug traffickers. He said the anti-drug campaign is already showing positive results at the village level and assured that no one involved in the drug trade would be spared. Kejriwal added that Punjab is steadily moving towards becoming a model state.
Mann and Kejriwal also paid homage to Maharaja Agrasen Ji at a function, describing him as a visionary ruler who promoted the idea of a welfare state through unity and social harmony. Kejriwal urged people to draw inspiration from Maharaja Agrasen’s timeless values and stressed that true tribute to such a leader lies in living by his ideals in everyday life. Mann echoed this sentiment, calling on citizens to rise above caste, creed, colour, and religious divisions.
Mann praised the Aggarwal community for its significant contribution to India’s socio-economic development and expressed confidence that it would continue to play a vital role in the country’s progress. Highlighting Maharaja Agrasen’s legacy, he reaffirmed his message of social unity and governance focused on public welfare.
Kejriwal also hailed Maharaja Agrasen as a symbol of peace and non-violence and expressed delight over the laying of the foundation stone for the new Maharaja Agrasen Darbar in Nabha, being built by the Aggarwal community at an estimated cost of ₹5 crore.
Mann and Kejriwal also visited the historic Sri Kali Mata Mandir in Patiala, where they offered prayers for the peace, prosperity, and progress of the state. Addressing the media afterward, they announced a comprehensive renovation plan for the temple.
They said the temple’s sarovar, which has been dry for over 30 years, will be rejuvenated by pumping fresh water. The revival will include desilting, waterproofing, stonework along the banks, and development of well-maintained pathways. They emphasised that the initiative aims to preserve the temple’s sanctity, enhance accessibility, and align the structure with traditional heritage architecture.
The back gate of the temple—an important entry point during peak footfall—will be reopened and renovated, while all entrances will be aesthetically restored for architectural harmony and better crowd management.
In keeping with Sikh and Hindu traditions of community service, a daily langar (community kitchen) will be introduced to serve devotees, particularly those from remote areas or economically weaker backgrounds.
The leaders also shared that a comprehensive master plan is being prepared, covering future construction, heritage conservation, pilgrim amenities, sanitation, parking, and traffic management—developed in consultation with urban and religious planning experts.
They announced that the Devotees Hall at Sri Kali Mata Mandir will be upgraded into a fully air-conditioned facility to ensure comfort for senior citizens, women with children, and differently abled devotees, especially during extreme weather.
Mann and Kejriwal highlighted the temple’s importance, noting it attracts approximately 25,000 devotees daily, one lakh on Saturdays, and up to 1.5 lakh during Navratri. They expressed deep respect and gratitude for the opportunity to offer prayers at this sacred shrine, describing Sri Kali Mata Mandir—situated in Patiala, the cultural capital of Punjab—as one of the most historic and revered temples in northern India.
They added that the temple houses a six-foot idol of Maa Kali and the sacred Paawan Jyot brought from Bengal. The complex also includes an ancient shrine of Shri Raj Rajeshwari Ji, a divine embodiment of Shakti.
Emphasising the importance of preserving cultural heritage, the leaders said it is the government’s foremost duty to protect such historic sites and to instill awareness among the youth about Punjab’s rich and glorious past.
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