Making its political debut in Punjab, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) today released its manifesto for the upcoming Assembly polls in the state. From promising homes to Muslims and Christians and appointment of a deputy CM from the Dalit community if it came to power, the party appears to have paid little heed to the Supreme Court’s order prohibiting political parties from seeking votes in the name of religion, caste and creed.
Releasing the manifesto here, party MP Bhagwat Mann and Punjab affairs in-charge Sanjay Singh said that the election document was prepared after consultations with people of the state.
“The Aam Aadmi Party will not fail on delivering its promises like other parties,” he said.
The AAP manifesto promised Jan Lokpal Bill in Punjab to fight corruption, making the state free of drug peddlers, create 25 lakh jobs and Aam Aadmi Party canteens at cheap rates.
By April 15, drug mafias in the state will be put behind the bars, it said. Besides, drugs victims will be rehabilitated within six months of the government’s formation.
It also promised Rs 5 per unit electricity to the entire industry operating in the state. Three sports college and schools will also be development if the AAP gets full majority in the 117–member House, it said.
It said that Sir Chhotu Ram Act will be put in place to ensure farmers’ rights are not compromised. For all citizens of the Punjab, the government will provide a health insurance of up to Rs 5 lakh.
New houses for Muslims and Christians will be constructed and separate land for graveyard will also be allotted. All police stations will be modernised and CCTVs will be installed, it said.
However, in a clear violation of the SC’s order, the party promised the post of the deputy CM to a Dalit.
From media persons, the manifesto said, government will make provisions to allow free crossing at toll plazas. Also a pension scheme will be launched for journalists. Besides, their offices will be provided with free wi-fi services.
It further promised 33 per cent reservation for women in jobs.
The AAP is making debut in the state Assembly polls this year. The state is currently being ruled by SAD-BJP coalition. While the SAD has 54 MLAs, the BJP has 11 legislators.
According to pre-poll surveys, the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP has an edge over BJP and the ruling coalition. The opinion polls too, have revealed that AAP is enjoying an unprecedented novelty value in the state.
Punjab will to go to polls in a single phase on February 4. Results will be declared on March 11.
