Punjab's Political Clash Over Controversial Land Pooling Policy

In Punjab, opposition parties have ramped up their criticism of the AAP government's controversial land pooling policy, calling it a 'land grabbing scheme.' The Shiromani Akali Dal, led by Sukhbir Singh Badal, has pledged to intensify demonstrations, arguing that the policy unfairly targets farmers.

The Congress party, including Punjab president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, has accused the AAP of attempting to seize farmers' lands without adequate compensation. Further discontent emerged as Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira highlighted an AAP MP's criticism of the policy, which was subsequently retracted under alleged pressure.

Despite opposition backlash, AAP maintains that the policy is 'farmer-friendly,' emphasizing it has received governmental approval and aims to promote fair urban development. The state government assures that proper compensatory measures are in place, offering residential and commercial plots in exchange for acquired land.

(With inputs from agencies.)