CM Mann hits back at Amit Shah: “BJP’s religious politics won’t work here’
Chandigarh, March 16, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sharply responded to recent remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s strategy of leveraging religion for political gain would never succeed in Punjab.
Addressing the issue, Mann said that while BJP governments in other states often engage in conflicts and divisions under the guise of religion, Punjab is a land known for communal harmony and shared heritage. “Statements aimed at promoting religious conversions or stirring tensions do not belong in Punjab’s peaceful environment,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Mann emphasized, “Punjabis are heirs of the Gurus who made immense sacrifices for humanity and faith. The people of Punjab know how to protect their heritage. There is no place here for external political fear or temptation.”
He further reminded the BJP leadership that the state has historically stood firmly against oppression and forces that attempt to sow division in the name of religion. Mann warned that Punjab should not be viewed through the same lens as other states where communal politics has been used to consolidate power, making it clear that such tactics would fail in the state.
