Gurdas Mann becomes Election Commission ‘icon’ for 2017 Punjab elections

CHANDIGARH : The Election Commission of India has appointed celebrated Punjabi singer Gurdas Mann as state icon for the 2017 Punjab assembly elections. According to official sources Mann would encourage the young voters to register as voters, participate in voring without and fear to strengthen the democracy. Mann has replaced Gurpreet Singh Ghuggi, a noted comedian and actor who joined Aam Aadmi Party. Prior to Ghuggi famous actor and comedian Jaspal Bhatti was the state icon. Punjab is going to elect a new government in January 2017. The appointment of Gurdass Mann is seen as a set back to ruling Shiromani Akali Dal(SAD). Mann is strong critic of drug abuse in Punjab and supported the film Udta Punjab. He always pray for good days for Punjab. Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal had publically lashed out at Mann for defaming Punjab on drug issue. “We dont need certificate from Gurdas Mann”, Badal told media in Ropar. It is expected Mann would actively participate in awareness campaign of Election Commission and encourage the youth to vote for a right party and save Punjab. Mann is popular among the masses not only in Punjab but he has a global audience.