SAD leader challenges CM Mann to clarify debate participation

A leader from the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has called on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to provide clarity on whether he has invited Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal to participate in the November 1 debate concerning Punjab’s issues. Prof Prem Singh Chandumajra emphasized that Kejriwal, in his role as the Delhi chief minister, seems to be directing the Punjab government. Chandumajra believes it is vital for Chief Minister Mann to confirm whether Kejriwal has been extended an invitation to join the debate.
Chandumajra further elaborated that the SAD is interested in having a clear agenda for the debate, proposing that an all-party meeting would be more conducive to discussing these important issues in a technical and collaborative manner, rather than a one-sided debate. The SAD’s intention is to refrain from politicizing the discussion of significant problems.
Addressing the issue of water sharing, Balwinder Singh Bhundar, another senior SAD leader, expressed the party’s desire to avoid political scoring. He emphasized that if the chief minister is genuinely committed to this initiative, he should provide a clear agenda and arrange a meeting with all relevant political parties.
Dr. Daljeet Singh Cheema, a former cabinet minister and senior SAD leader, also commented on the lack of clarity regarding the debate. He believes that the chief minister’s focus on the debate could potentially divert attention from more pressing concerns. Cheema suggested that the debate’s scope should be limited to the water-sharing issue, allowing for a more focused and constructive discussion.