Singer Mankirt Aulakh Urges CM Mann to Waive Farmers' Loans During Video Call from Hospital

Popular Punjabi singer and actor Mankirt Aulakh, currently recovering in the hospital, made a heartfelt appeal to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann via video call, requesting a major relief measure for farmers across the state.

During the conversation, Aulakh urged the CM to consider waiving off farm loans in light of the devastating floods that have battered several parts of Punjab. The singer emphasized the mounting challenges faced by the agricultural community and said immediate financial intervention was critical to prevent further distress.

CM Mann Lauds Aulakh’s Relief Efforts

The Chief Minister, who reached out to Aulakh via video call, praised him for his active involvement in relief and rescue operations during the flood crisis. Mann commended the singer’s dedication to helping affected communities despite his own health condition.

In a tweet following the call, CM Mann wrote, “Spoke to Mankirt Aulakh today. Even from his hospital bed, he continues to inspire. People like him, who stand by Punjab in times of crisis, are the true pride of our land.”

Mann further added that speaking to individuals like Aulakh — who have gone beyond their roles to assist during emergencies — has been a source of motivation for him personally.

Aulakh Calls for Immediate Farmer Relief

In his message, Aulakh expressed concern for the state’s farmers, many of whom have lost their crops, livestock, and livelihoods to floodwaters. He appealed for urgent loan waivers, citing the already heavy debt burden many farmers carry.

"Right now, our farmers are broken — financially and emotionally. Waiving their loans is not just a financial issue, it’s a humanitarian one,” Aulakh reportedly told the CM during their conversation.

The singer has consistently used his platform to speak out on agricultural issues, particularly since the 2020–21 farmers' protests, where he was a vocal supporter.

Public Support Grows for Aulakh’s Demand

Aulakh’s appeal has garnered widespread support on social media, with fans, fellow artists, and activists praising his continued commitment to Punjab’s agrarian community. Hashtags such as #LoanWaiverForFarmers and #StandWithMankirt trended regionally as users shared clips and quotes from the video call.

Many are now urging the state government to take concrete steps toward addressing rural debt and providing long-term relief to the flood-hit farming sector.

Background: Floods Devastate Punjab

Over the past few weeks, heavy rains and rising river levels have caused widespread flooding in multiple districts of Punjab, damaging homes, farmlands, and infrastructure. Relief efforts are underway, but the scale of the disaster has left thousands displaced and struggling.

The state government has deployed emergency teams and announced compensation packages, though many locals say more sustained aid is required — particularly for small and marginal farmers who face the highest losses.