Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Delayed at Airport for Three Hours
AAP alleges that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann faced a three-hour delay at the airport, criticizing the central government's actions.
Bhagwant Mann was reportedly delayed for three hours at an Indian airport.
The CM was returning from Paris, where he launched Punjab's products at an international food exhibition.
Opposition parties criticize Mann's trip amid Punjab's ongoing drug crisis.
In a recent incident, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bharadwaj claimed that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was held up at an Indian airport for approximately three hours. This delay has sparked significant political controversy, with Bharadwaj asserting that it reflects the central government's ongoing arrogance towards state leaders.
The incident occurred as Mann was returning from Paris, where he participated in the Salon International de l’Alimentation (SIAL) 2026, launching two new products under the MARKFED SOHNA brand. Bharadwaj highlighted that Mann's trip was significant for promoting Punjab's agricultural products, especially after the Chief Minister had previously challenged the Centre for not granting him the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) for his travel.
Bharadwaj criticized the central government's actions, stating, "This arrogance of Centre must end. Even Ravan’s arrogance ended on Dussehra." The political tension escalated as opposition leaders questioned the timing of Mann's trip, arguing that it coincided with a severe drug crisis affecting Punjab, where many lives are reportedly lost to substance abuse.
BJP leaders have been particularly vocal, with MP Tarun Chugh condemning Mann's decision to travel abroad while Punjab grapples with escalating drug-related issues. Chugh claimed that the Chief Minister's trip was inappropriate given the state’s dire situation, where law enforcement is under strain and public safety is compromised. He further criticized the trip as a personal celebration disguised as an official visit, questioning the legitimacy of Mann's travel expenses and the presence of his wife.
As the political fallout continues, the AAP government faces mounting pressure to address the drug crisis while defending Mann's international engagements. The situation raises questions about the balance between state governance and personal responsibilities, with both supporters and critics closely monitoring the developments. Looking ahead, the AAP is expected to respond to these allegations and clarify the circumstances surrounding Mann's travel and the airport incident.
