Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann speaks up on party formed by jailed MP Amritpal, Indira Gandhi assassin’s son: ‘Anyone can form political parties, but people decide their fate’

Patiala: Anyone has the right to form political parties in the state and the country, but it is up to the people to decide their fate, remarked Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday in response to jailed Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh's new party Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De).
Mann said that earlier in the past, attempts were made to disturb Punjab's harmony and mutual brotherhood, but the social bonding in the state is so strong that any seed could grow on the fertile land of Punjab but that of hatred will never germinate here.
Mann was in Patiala to dedicate to people the first of its kind boutique-heritage hotel, Ran Baas-Palace, constructed in Quila Mubarak. Mann said that the aesthetically designed hotel has been built on a public private partnership mode and will set a new benchmark in comfort, hospitality, and elegance. "This magnificent hotel will be a favourite place for destination weddings and others. It will give a big boost to the tourism sector in the state, particularly Patiala. It will give further impetus to tourism in the royal city by providing a comprehensive and holistic wedding destination, in addition to its current status as a hub for religious tourism," said Mann.
"Located within Patiala's 18th-century Qila Mubarak complex, Ran Baas-the Palace is a celebration of rich legacy, royal heritage, and bountiful culture of Punjab. Ran Baas offers 35 suites, a range of dining and wellness amenities, and curated immersive experiences for modern travellers. The palace and the larger fort boast of an enduring, eclectic legacy steeped in royal culture, from the celebratory traditions of Patiala to the architectural character of the palace itself," Mann said.
Calling it a step in the direction of enhancing the income of the state exchequer, Mann said, the areas around Chohal Dam, Ranjit Sagar Dam, Shahpur Kandi Dam, and Kandi areas of the state were being developed as tourist destinations. "Punjab govt has land even in states like Goa, Jaipur (Rajasthan), Mcleodganj (Himachal Pradesh), and others, which will be developed in coming days. Earlier, previous state govts used to sell prime properties of the state to their close friends, but now a reverse trend is being witnessed as the state govt is developing these sites," he added.
Heritage street at Bhagat Singh's native village
Chief minister Bhagwant Mann said that the state govt will construct a heritage street at the native village of Shaheed-e-Aazam Bhagat Singh to showcase the glorious contribution of Punjab and Punjabis in the national freedom struggle. "This 850-metre-long heritage street will be constructed from the existing museum to the ancestral house at Shaheed Bhagat Singh at Khatkar Kalan. This street will showcase the glorious contribution of the state in the national freedom struggle, thereby inspiring the youth to work zealously for the country," he said.