Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday urged young women to step forward and actively participate in politics, emphasizing their crucial role in decision-making and societal change.
Speaking at the annual convocation of Government College for Girls, the Chief Minister highlighted that while women have surpassed men in various fields, politics remains an exception. He pointed out that politics has long been considered a male-dominated arena, but the time has come for women to break this barrier. "Women’s participation in this field is imperative to carve out an egalitarian society and in the larger interest of society and state," he asserted.
Mann emphasized that increasing women’s involvement in politics would strengthen democracy at the grassroots level and ensure better representation. He encouraged women to vote wisely, recognizing the power of their franchise in shaping the state’s leadership. "This will help in making Punjab a frontrunner, progressive, and prosperous state in the country," he added.
Expressing pride in the achievements of young women across various fields, the Chief Minister acknowledged the role of teachers in shaping their futures. Congratulating the students, he expressed hope that they would achieve great success. He also praised Principal Suman Lata for her leadership, stating that the students were fortunate to have such a dynamic mentor.
Mann highlighted his government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, citing recent appointments of female officers. "Our government has appointed eight women as Deputy Commissioners, six as Senior Superintendents of Police, and 18 as ADCs—the highest number of female officers ever in these positions," he noted.
He also spoke about his government’s employment initiatives, stating that over 52,000 jobs have been provided to youth in the past 36 months based purely on merit, without corruption or nepotism. "It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that these youth will contribute to the socio-economic development of Punjab," he said.
Encouraging students to draw inspiration from individuals who have overcome humble beginnings to achieve greatness, Mann reassured them that the state government would support their ambitions. "The world is full of examples where people from modest backgrounds have succeeded through hard work and dedication," he remarked.
The Chief Minister reflected on Punjab’s rich history, noting that the state is not only the country’s food bowl but also its "sword arm," known for courage, resilience, and enterprise. "Every inch of this sacred land has the footprint of great Gurus, saints, seers, and martyrs who have shown us the way to oppose tyranny, injustice, and oppression," he said, highlighting Punjab’s cultural legacy and warm hospitality.
Taking a dig at traditional political parties, Mann claimed they were envious of his leadership because he came from a common background. "These leaders always believed they had a divine right to rule, and they cannot digest that a common man is running the state efficiently," he stated. He accused them of misleading the people but expressed confidence that citizens were no longer falling for their propaganda.
Recalling his personal connection to Ludhiana since the early 1990s, when he was an aspiring artist, Mann encouraged the students to persevere through challenges. "Never lose heart or get discouraged by failures—they are the stepping stones to success," he advised, urging them to remain humble and dedicated to their goals.