In a strong condemnation of the BJP-led Union government’s decision to reject Punjab’s tableau for the Republic Day parade, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann accused the central government of undermining the significant sacrifices made by Punjabis during the national freedom struggle. Addressing the media at Punjab Bhawan, Mann expressed dismay over the repetitive rejection, emphasizing that it reflects a deliberate attempt to humiliate the state.
The Chief Minister pointed out that the BJP government had similarly rejected the tableau last year, and by repeating the action this year, they have exacerbated the wounds of the state. Mann criticized the BJP for its divisive tactics during the elections, focusing on issues like Hindu-Muslim relations and temple-mosque disputes. Mann highlighted the global homage paid at Sri Fatehgarh to Chotta Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, along with Mata Gujri ji. In contrast, he accused the BJP government of playing tactics to disgrace Punjab. He underscored the rich heritage of martyrdom and sacrifices, which, he believes, the Union government has insulted by rejecting the proposed tableaus.
The Chief Minister firmly rejected the perceived mistreatment of the state, deeming it unacceptable and unwarranted. He criticized the decision during the period when the world acknowledged the sacrifice of Chotta Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri ji for humanity. Mann reminded the Union government of Punjab’s unparalleled contributions to India’s freedom struggle and border protection.
Mann argued that the inclusion of Punjab’s tableaus in the Republic Day parade would have enhanced the event’s prestige, especially with the French President as the chief guest this year. He lamented that Punjab has been excluded for the past two years, attributing it to the ongoing saffronization of national events by the Modi government.
The Chief Minister disclosed that the state government had proposed three ideas for the tableau, emphasizing Punjab’s history of sacrifice and martyrdom, Mai Bhago – the First Lady warrior of Sikhism (women empowerment), and the rich heritage of Punjab. Despite timely submissions, Mann claimed that the Union government ignored the state’s significant contributions.
Mann accused the Union government of making a mockery of Punjab’s immense contribution to nation-building. He warned against undermining Punjab’s sacrifices for the country’s unity, sovereignty, and integrity, alleging a grave conspiracy by the BJP-led Union government.
Taking aim at BJP supporters, Mann criticized them for praising Modi’s tableaus while opposing those honouring great martyrs. He challenged BJP leaders, including Captain Amarinder Singh, Sunil Jakhar, RP Singh, Manjinder Sirsa, and others, to explain the perceived injustice being done to the state by their government at the Centre.
The Chief Minister reiterated his belief that the Modi government exhibits an anti-Punjab stance, expressing concerns that the government might even omit Punjab’s name from the national anthem. He questioned the silence of state BJP leaders on the issue and accused the Union government of obstructing pro-people initiatives by the state government.
Mann cited examples such as the stalled funds for Aam Aadmi Clinics, the halt in Rural Development Funds, and the deliberate stopping of trains for the Mukh Mantri Teerth Yatra Scheme. Despite these challenges, Mann pledged to vigorously raise the issue with the Union government and promised to showcase Punjab’s legacy in all functions across the state on January 26, even if excluded from the Republic Day parade.
The Chief Minister concluded by asserting that Punjab is making efforts to be self-reliant, reducing the dependence on the Centre for assistance in various matters.
