CHANDIGARH — A major political controversy has erupted in Punjab after Patiala MP Dharamvira Gandhi publicly condemned the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for deploying taxpayers’ money toward state-backed religious outreach initiatives.
In a direct critique of the government, the Congress lawmaker argued that personal faith should remain entirely separate from official state functions and public expenditure.
Objections Raised Over Public Fund Usage
Gandhi stressed that citizens pay taxes to enable the state to furnish essential services—such as healthcare, quality education, employment opportunities, and infrastructure—rather than promoting specific religious events.
“Religion is a matter of an individual’s personal faith; the state should not promote or patronise one religion over another,” Gandhi stated, cautioning that government-funded religious patronage threatens social cohesion.
The MP pointed to several state-supported activities, including:
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Cultural Programs: Government-backed events including “Ek Shaam Shiv Ke Naam” and “Hamare Ram”.
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State Pilgrimage Schemes: Sponsoring travel for devotees visiting major religious centers such as Shri Khatu Shyam, Salasar, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Shri Hazur Sahib.
Political Stakes Ahead of the 2027 State Polls
Gandhi’s public pushback stands out within opposition circles, as neither the primary Congress party leadership nor the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has initiated a sustained campaign against AAP’s religious outreach strategies.
Historically, urban Hindu voters have formed a key base for Congress in Punjab. With AAP making deliberate efforts to expand its electoral reach, observers view these religious initiatives as a strategy to consolidate support prior to the 2027 Punjab Assembly Elections.
Defending the initiatives, AAP representatives maintained that state-funded pilgrimage schemes fulfill community aspirations and promote cultural harmony.
“Government-funded pilgrimages fulfill people’s dreams. Just as people draw inspiration from Lord Ram, the teachings and lives of the Gurus can guide our children towards a better society,” stated the official AAP response.
