Addressing a rally at Jorian Bhatian here last evening, Amarinder said he knew and understood that they (police and administration) were under "tremendous pressure" to favour the Akali candidates both in Patiala and Talwandi Sabo.
"But don't worry the Akalis are not going to be there for ever and 2017 is not that far when they will be seen off and Congress will be in power," he said.
The former Chief Minister said the people of Punjab had "suffered" the Akalis for a long time and now was the time to show them their place.
"That is why I am saying, these bye-elections are very crucial as these will set the tone for the 2017 assembly elections", he said, remarking, "these elections will prove to be the game-changer for Punjab".
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"I know you are making us win, but you must ensure that the victory is with the largest ever record margin to send a clear and unambiguous message that you want this corrupt and hopeless government to go," he said.
Amarinder's wife and former union minister Preneet Kaur is contesting on Congress ticket from Patiala seat.
Amarinder said his and his family's bonding with Patiala and its people was not a momentary one or driven by any political interests, but it was personal and "rooted in over 300-year-old long history" of the city.