Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Criticizes Modi Government Over Deportation of Illegal Immigrants to Amritsar

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Criticizes Modi Government Over Deportation of Illegal Immigrants to Amritsar

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Slams Modi Government Over Deportation of Illegal Immigrants to Amritsar

Amritsar, Punjab:  Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly criticized the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre for selecting Amritsar’s Guru Ram Dass International Airport as the landing site for deported illegal Indian immigrants. Mann’s remarks come as two more flights, carrying over 100 Indians who were deported by the Trump administration, are scheduled to land in Amritsar on February 15 and 16.

The controversy revolves around the arrival of deported individuals who had previously entered the United States illegally. On February 15, a plane carrying these deportees is expected to land at the airport around 10 p.m. This marks the second wave of deportations after a first flight landed earlier this month.

The Punjab CM has raised critical questions regarding why Amritsar, a key city in his state, was selected for these flights. According to Mann, the move is an attempt to tarnish Punjab’s reputation. He pointed out that if 67 of the 119 deported individuals are from Punjab, as reports suggest, there is no reason why the first plane didn’t land in a city like Ahmedabad instead.

Mann’s Concerns: Why Amritsar?

Mann’s comments are based on the premise that the government is purposely choosing to associate Punjab with the issue of illegal immigration, a claim that he believes is politically motivated. “It is being said that out of the 119 illegal immigrants, 67 hail from Punjab, and that’s why the plane will land in Amritsar,” he stated. “If that’s the case, then why didn’t the first plane land in Ahmedabad?”

The CM further insinuated that the Modi government’s decision to send these deported individuals to Punjab may be linked to political strategies to defame the state. In a statement to the media, Mann posed the question, “So, at the time when PM Modi and US President Trump were meeting, were they also shackling our people?” He raised doubts, asking whether the deportation flights were a “gift” from Donald Trump, referring to the US President’s past stance on immigration.

Political Allegations: Defamation of Punjab?

In his most direct criticism of the BJP-led central government, Mann accused the ruling party of consistently trying to “defame Punjabis and Punjab.” He alleged that this deportation of Indian nationals, many from Punjab, was part of a broader narrative designed to paint the state in a negative light.

The criticism comes against the backdrop of PM Modi’s upcoming visit to the US, where issues related to immigration were likely discussed during high-level meetings. Mann questioned the timing and rationale behind the arrival of these deported immigrants, suggesting that the BJP was using the issue as a means of political leverage.

“Is this the kind of gift Trump has given us?” Mann asked, referring to the deportation initiative under the Trump administration. The timing of the deportations has raised questions about whether this issue is being politicized to target Punjab, a state with a significant diaspora in the United States.

The Deportation Plan: A Larger Pattern?

The ongoing deportations reflect a broader issue of illegal immigration from India to the United States, which has been a topic of concern under the Trump administration. According to reports, the US authorities have been carrying out mass deportations, particularly targeting those who entered the country illegally or overstayed their visas.

With this in mind, Mann’s allegations of targeted actions against Punjab become a source of controversy. The decision to send deported individuals to Punjab is being viewed by some as a reflection of the government’s perceived indifference to the well-being and reputation of the state.

Mann’s concerns align with broader political tensions, with Punjab often finding itself at odds with the central government on issues ranging from farmers’ protests to regional autonomy.

The Larger Impact: Will This Affect Punjab’s Image?

As the debate continues, the arrival of these deported individuals at Amritsar airport is expected to generate significant attention both in India and abroad. It is crucial to consider the broader implications of this situation: How will this affect Punjab’s image, and how will political leaders navigate the public discourse?

Given the sizable Indian diaspora in the United States, particularly from Punjab, the emotional and cultural ties to the region are strong. With the spotlight now on Amritsar, the issue of illegal immigration is set to continue drawing debate, particularly as it intersects with politics in both India and the US.

In conclusion, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s strong stance against the Modi government’s decision to send deported immigrants to Amritsar highlights ongoing tensions between state and central authorities. As the political landscape evolves, this issue is likely to remain a point of contention, especially as Punjab seeks to protect its reputation amid accusations of defamation.