Delimitation brought more neglect

WHAT HE DELIVERED: From his MPLAD fund,Sukhbir Singh Badal sanctioned Rs 25.11 crore,out of which he spent about 93 per cent. Majority of this fund was spent on repairs of dharamsalas,drains and streets and laying of new sewerage system. Free electricity to farmers was restored after the SAD-BJP government returned to power in 2007,enhanced Shagun scheme for Dalits was launched,octroi remained abolished and girls were provided free education in government schools.

WHERE HE FAILED: The three-time MP (he won in 1996,1998 and 2004) deserted the constituency in 2007,when it was made reserved. Baba Farid University continued to be neglected and the problem of waterlogging only increased. Lifting and storage of grains also remained the government’s bug bear.

ATTENDANCE IN LOK SABHA: Sukhbir’s attendance was just 25 per cent as he was more active in state politics.

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS ASKED OR ISSUES TAKEN UP: The Deputy Chief Minister participated in five debates,including a budget session. He had demanded action against those indicted by the Nanavati Commission,development of agricultural research,better infrastructure,power generation and waiving of farmers’ debts. He also asked seven questions on shipping,four-laning of roads in Punjab,agriculture,loss of crop due to hailstorm and return of Sikh manuscripts to the SGPC. He is also a member of the parliamentary committee constituted for transport,tourism and culture.

Opinion: “We actually have no MP,for Sukhbir Badal left us for Bathinda long time ago. The Badals never showed the will to do anything for this segment. Parkash Singh Badal has also been an MP from here,and their native village is also part of this constituency. But after delimitation,they shifted focus to Bathinda. Sukhbir has not fulfilled even a single promise made to us,and the grants that he has distributed have gone to the local clubs and associations,” says Sukhinder Singh,a local leader.

Robinder Singh,a progressive farmer,says,“We have not seen any planned growth in the area. With the government unclear on whether it wants diversification or foodgrains,there has been no investment in agriculture sector. Whatever development that one can see in this area is a result of private initiative.”

Votes secured by top three candidates in 2004 election
Sukhbir Badal (SAD-B): 4,75,928
Karan Kaur Brar (Congress): 3,40,649
Sant Ram (BSP): 45,207
TOTAL VOTES POLLED: 12,62,934