Sunil Jakhar Questions Punjab's Land Pooling Policy; Warns Farmers of Government's Land Acquisition Intentions
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 29, 2025 – Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar has raised serious concerns over the land pooling policy introduced by the Punjab government. Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, Jakhar said that there is an urgent need to make the public, especially farmers, aware of the implications of this policy.
Jakhar directly questioned Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, asking whether a farmer whose land falls under the land pooling policy would be allowed to sell it freely. He alleged that the policy is a covert means of acquiring farmers' land at throwaway prices and then selling it to big builders for profit.
"The land pooling policy is a deception. The people are being misled under this scheme," said Jakhar. He added that if the BJP comes to power in Punjab, no one would be allowed to touch farmers’ land.
He also issued a stern warning to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, stating that if the government proceeds with land acquisition under this policy, they will be held accountable.
Taking a dig at AAP MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap, Jakhar questioned how a former police officer could fall into the trap of individuals who allegedly have links to extremist elements. Jakhar also claimed that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had stayed at a Babar Khalsa associate’s residence during the 2017 Assembly elections and accused AAP of forming the government with support from extremist-linked money.
"These people have grown up in the shadow of terrorism. Their actions are disturbing the peace in Punjab," Jakhar said.
Targeting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Jakhar mocked him for allegedly functioning under the influence of Delhi leadership. "Cabinet meetings now happen at the CM’s residence, not to discuss Punjab's matters freely, but because Manish Sisodia and Arvind Kejriwal are present in the drawing room," he alleged. Jakhar even claimed that the Chief Minister’s chair is now placed to the side to make room for Sisodia’s seat.
Jakhar urged the people of Punjab, particularly farmers, to remain vigilant and not fall prey to policies that he claimed are designed to exploit them.