Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Claims Delays and Unjust Fines at Delhi Airport

Chandigarh, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann raised significant concerns in the assembly on Friday, alleging that he faced undue delays and fines during his recent trip to France. He stated that he did not receive prior approval from the central government for his travel and was held at Delhi Airport for nearly two hours upon his return.

Despite a thorough inspection of his luggage revealing no issues, Mann claimed he was pressured to pay a fine of ₹50,000. Speaking to the assembly, he emphasized the importance of attracting foreign investment to Punjab, mentioning invitations he has received from various countries, including Japan, Korea, and Germany, which have benefited the state.

Mann highlighted that he attended the world’s second-largest food fair in France, where major global companies participated. He noted that Punjab’s Markfed brand, “Sohna,” had a stall at the event, alongside approximately 150 stalls from India, with representatives from different states inviting him to visit.

The Chief Minister further explained that he had to approach the High Court to obtain the necessary travel protocols, which were subsequently granted. However, upon his return, he was detained at the airport, where he requested adherence to the protocols.

Mann alleged that customs officials informed him they were under pressure from higher authorities. He accused them of suggesting he should leave something behind and insisted on the unjust fine. He also claimed that the head of customs at Delhi Airport, Manish, is the brother of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that actions against political opponents are driven by vendetta.

Additionally, Mann asserted that the government had wrongfully imposed the National Security Act (NSA) on a student, labeling it as part of a pattern of retaliatory actions against adversaries.