Ex-CM Channi Questions CM Over Hospital Inauguration

Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi has raised sharp questions over the recent hospital inauguration by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, claiming that the facility was already completed three years ago under his government’s leadership. Channi criticized the ruling dispensation for what he called an “attempt to mislead the public” by presenting an existing project as a new achievement.

Speaking to the media, Channi alleged that the sub-divisional hospital, which Chief Minister Mann inaugurated with much fanfare, had been constructed during the Congress government’s tenure and was almost ready for use back in 2021. He accused the current government of rebranding old projects instead of focusing on fresh developmental initiatives.

“This hospital was my government’s project. We completed the construction nearly three years ago, and it was ready to serve the people. Instead of working on new infrastructure, the present CM is cutting ribbons on projects we already delivered. This is nothing but misleading propaganda,” Channi said while addressing a gathering.

The comments have sparked a political war of words in Punjab. Supporters of the Congress have rallied behind Channi, arguing that credit for the hospital should rightly go to the previous government. On the other hand, Aam Aadmi Party leaders have defended Chief Minister Mann, stating that the hospital was lying unused and required the current administration’s efforts to make it functional and fully operational.

Observers believe the issue highlights the larger trend of political rivalry in Punjab, where successive governments have often claimed credit for the same development works. Such disputes, they argue, distract from the core concern of ensuring timely delivery of healthcare, education, and infrastructure services to citizens.

Residents of the area expressed mixed reactions. Some acknowledged that the hospital had indeed been completed years ago but never started functioning effectively. Others felt that whatever the political tussle, the important outcome was that the facility has finally opened its doors to the public. “We have been waiting for years for this hospital to become operational. Politicians can argue all they want, but what matters is that patients can finally receive treatment here,” said a local resident.

Political analysts suggest that Channi’s remarks reflect the Congress party’s attempt to regain political ground in Punjab after facing defeat in the last assembly elections. By questioning Mann’s credibility, Channi is trying to position himself and his party as the true drivers of development. For Chief Minister Mann, however, the focus remains on showcasing his government’s initiatives while countering criticism from rivals.

As Punjab continues to grapple with challenges in healthcare accessibility, the controversy underscores the need for a more collaborative approach. Experts emphasize that instead of indulging in credit wars, political leaders should prioritize strengthening healthcare infrastructure and addressing the needs of rural and underserved populations.

Whether Channi’s accusations gain traction among voters or not remains to be seen. For now, the hospital stands as both a healthcare facility for the people and a political battlefield for Punjab’s leaders.