Patiala, Punjab – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday addressed “misconceptions” surrounding the state’s new land-pooling policy and the government’s plan to acquire 24,000 acres in Ludhiana’s suburbs. Speaking at an ‘AAP Sarkar, Aapke Duwar’ event in Patiala, Mann emphasized that the state government is not acquiring land forcibly, but rather seeking the consent and input of farmers and landowners for sustainable urban development projects.
The Chief Minister rejected claims by opposition parties that the scheme is a scam, asserting its transparency and public-friendly nature. “Some (opposition parties) are creating baseless panic… I am here today to clarify that we are not taking away anyone’s land without their agreement. We are here to seek your advice, ensure your participation, and bring development to your doorstep,” Mann stated.
Key aspects of the new land-pooling policy explained by CM Mann include:
- Voluntary Participation: Landowners have the choice to participate or not. Those who do not wish to give their land can continue using it for farming or other purposes.
- Guaranteed Returns: For every acre contributed, landowners will receive a residential plot of 1,000 square yards in developed urban areas and a commercial space of 200 square yards for shops or showrooms. These plots and spaces, once developed, are projected to have significantly higher market value.
- No Additional Costs: All development costs, including roads, drainage, electricity, and water supply infrastructure, will be borne by the state government.
- Value Appreciation: Mann highlighted that land currently valued at Rs 1 crore per acre today could yield developed property worth Rs 3-4 crore in return. Landowners can then choose to keep the property for consistent income, or sell it at their discretion.
CM Mann also criticized opposition parties for spreading “fear and misinformation,” accusing “half of these leaders” of being builders themselves and friends with land mafia. He alleged that these individuals were responsible for selling off Punjab’s lands at throwaway prices to their associates. Mann argued that these parties fear the new policies because they bring accountability and remove corruption from the system.
He further cited an example of Akali leader Manpreet Ayali, highlighting his personal stake in opposing the land pooling policy. “Ayali fears this policy because it brings transparency and accountability, which would end his cosy deals in real estate. Such people are spreading baseless rumours to protect their own businesses, not the interests of farmers. They thrive on chaos and corruption, but their days of exploiting Punjab’s resources are over,” he said.
Mann stressed the importance of bringing modern urban planning to rural Punjab, stating, “Our villages deserve the same quality of life as cities. Planned development will ensure proper sewage, parks, electricity, and clean water. This is not just about infrastructure; it’s about giving our rural population the dignity they deserve.”
The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of unapproved colonies in Punjab, which he described as a legacy of poor planning and corruption under previous administrations. He stated that “illegal colonies mushroomed across Punjab, leaving residents without basic amenities like sewage, electricity, or potable water.” Mann assured that the government is determined to regulate and redevelop these colonies, ensuring every resident gets access to modern facilities.
He concluded by assuring that all agreements under the land pooling policy would be made directly between the government and landowners, ensuring legal protections and eliminating any chance of exploitation. “I am here to listen to you and seek your suggestions. Together, we can create a Punjab where every individual prospers and every village shines,” Mann urged, calling on citizens to work with the government to make Punjab a model state for development.
