MOHALI: Former Punjab Health Minister and senior Congress leader Balbir Singh Sidhu has strongly condemned the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for what he termed as misleading statements and broken promises concerning the loan waiver scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) beneficiaries under the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation.
Targeting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Sidhu stated, “The CM's claim of waiving ₹68 crore in loans is completely false and designed to mislead the SC community. This is nothing but a numbers game to deceive and distract.”
Sidhu revealed that contrary to government claims, only the principal amount of ₹30.02 crore has actually been waived. The remaining ₹38 crore – including ₹22.95 crore in interest and ₹14.87 crore in penalties – remains untouched. “This incomplete and deceptive approach exposes the Mann government’s betrayal of the trust placed in it by the SC community, ” he said.
He further explained, “The SC Vikas Corporation primarily sustains itself through interest revenue. By waiving only the principal and not addressing the interest and penalties, the financial structure of the corporation is being eroded. This jeopardizes not only the 4, 727 families who were supposed to benefit, but also closes the doors of opportunity for thousands more in the future.”
Calling the issue one of trust, not just finances, Sidhu asserted, “The SC community reposed faith in the Mann government, but their hopes have been dashed. This is a direct violation of the principles of social justice. There’s a vast difference between rhetoric and reality, and the government must fulfill its commitments.”
He demanded that the government should Immediately waive the full ₹68 crore, including principal, interest, and penalties, Release additional funds to the SC Corporation to restart loan distribution, Present a clear roadmap to safeguard the rights of the SC community, focusing on employment, entrepreneurship, and housing support.
Sidhu also raised questions on AAP's earlier promises regarding: Allocation of land plots to landless and homeless members of the SC community, implementation of land reforms, which have seen repeated delays or partial execution, Neglect in delivering social welfare schemes, such as pensions, ration cards, and educational assistance in certain areas, despite tall claims under initiatives like “Tuhade Duaar”.
He concluded with a stern warning“The Mann government must stop this betrayal and deliver justice to the SC community. If the full loan waiver and new financial initiatives are not announced immediately, the Congress Party will reach every corner of Punjab to ensure the SC community receives its rightful due. We will not let them be deceived or marginalized.”