In a bold move, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the state›s plan to provide air travel facilities to its residents for pilgrimage purposes, following the recent inauguration of a library in the nearby village of Kanjla. The decision comes in the wake of the Railway ministry›s refusal to grant trains to Punjab for the same purpose, as alleged by CM Mann during his address to the gathered audience.
Commencement of Bookings and Financial Investment
Despite Punjab›s deposit of a substantial sum, ranging from a quarter to two crore rupees with the railways for bookings, the ministry remained unyielding, rejecting both train provision and the offer of a rail engine. Undeterred, the Punjab government has taken matters into its own hands and is set to organize air travel for its residents to various pilgrimage sites, regardless of support from the central government. Bookings for flights have already been secured, and the commencement of the pilgrimage journeys is expected shortly.
Punjab Forges Direct Connections with Other States
Highlighting the proactive stance of Punjab, CM Mann emphasized the state›s efforts in establishing direct connections with other states. Punjab is positioned to directly supply essential commodities such as rice, wheat, and others to any state in need. Mann urged the central government to recognize Punjab as a dynamic force, likening it to a river whose flow cannot be halted. Drawing a parallel, he emphasized that just as a river carves its own path, Punjab is determinedly forging its own way forward.
CM Mann›s Counterattack on Sukhbir Badal
In an additional development, CM Bhagwant Mann launched a scathing counterattack on SAD chief Sukhbir Badal, who had challenged him with a defamation case. Mann vehemently denied having any stakes in group affiliations, transport businesses, or hotels. He pledged to present all relevant documents before the court, shedding light on matters such as Sukhvilas and other business interests held by the Badal family. The courtroom drama promises to unravel additional layers of the ongoing political feud.
