Tarun Chugh raises concerns over Punjab’s land pooling policy, urges caution

Chandigarh, Jul 22: BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh has expressed concern over the Punjab government’s proposed Land Pooling Policy, cautioning that farmers should carefully evaluate its long-term implications before giving their consent. Chugh criticised the approach taken by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, suggesting that recent changes to the policy may not fully address the apprehensions of landowners. He pointed out that while certain financial incentives, such as annual payouts and commercial plots, are being offered, these may not reflect the true value of the land or provide sufficient long-term security for farmers. He also questioned the provision of a Rs 50,000 cheque as part of the consent process, raising concerns that it could pressure landowners into decisions without fully understanding the consequences.

Framing it as part of a broader pattern, Chugh argued that the state government needs to engage more transparently with stakeholders and build greater trust around such policies.

He said the BJP would continue to raise these issues to ensure that farmers’ interests are safeguarded. While political differences remain over the policy, the BJP has indicated that it supports infrastructure development that benefits all, but not at the cost of farmers' rights and livelihoods.