SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal Pledges 75% Job Reservation for Punjabis in Govt and Private Sectors
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal, while addressing an election rally in Bathinda, outlined his party’s vision to prioritize Punjabi youth in government and private sector job opportunities if elected to power. Badal emphasized the need for legislation to reserve 75% of jobs in both sectors exclusively for Punjabis.
Badal criticized the incumbent AAP government for allegedly neglecting the interests of Punjabi youth by allowing non-residents to secure government jobs. He promised to restore the policy of appointing only Punjabi residents to government positions, aiming to address the unemployment concerns of local youth.
However, legal hurdles may arise, as evidenced by the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s previous dismissal of a similar legislation in neighboring Haryana, citing discrimination against non-state residents.
Badal also lambasted the AAP government for its perceived failure in maintaining law and order, highlighting concerns over rising criminal activities and drug trafficking. He proposed strict measures, including capital punishment for drug traffickers, to tackle the persistent issue of drug abuse in Punjab.
In a bid to evoke emotive sentiments, Badal reminded voters of historical grievances against the Congress party, referencing the 1984 attack on the Golden Temple complex and subsequent anti-Sikh riots. He urged Punjabis to rally behind SAD, portraying it as the defender of Sikh interests against historical injustices.
Additionally, Badal criticized the fiscal mismanagement under the Mann-led AAP government, blaming their alleged lack of governance experience for the state’s deteriorating financial health.