Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Slams Modi Government for Deportations at Amritsar Airport
Amritsar, February 15, 2025 – In a passionate address, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has strongly criticized the Modi-led Union Government for repeatedly landing deportation flights carrying Indians back from the United States at Sri Guru Ram Dass International Airport, Amritsar. The CM warned the Indian government not to turn the sacred city of Amritsar into a “detention or deportee centre” by repeatedly subjecting it to the humiliation of deportee arrivals.
Mann’s remarks come as the Punjab government braces for another group of deportees landing at the Amritsar airport later tonight. The Chief Minister, who personally visited the airport to oversee arrangements, emphasized the emotional and cultural significance of the city, which houses sacred sites like Sri Harmandir Sahib, Jallianwala Bagh, and other historical landmarks that symbolize Punjab’s legacy of sacrifice for the nation.
A Sacred Land Not for Deportations
In his statements, Mann reminded the Modi government that Amritsar is a city of great spiritual significance, particularly for the Sikh community. The CM accused the central government of using the city for “dirty tantrums” aimed at tarnishing Punjab’s reputation. He likened the treatment of deportees to an attack on the psyche of Punjabis, adding that landing deportation flights at Amritsar was disrespectful to the region’s historical and religious legacy.
Mann also drew a parallel, questioning whether the Indian government would allow such a practice at Vatican City — a highly respected site for the Christian community. His message was clear: Amritsar, like other sacred lands, deserves respect, not to be made a hub for controversial deportation activities.
A Critique of Modi’s Foreign Policy
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to address the issue of deportations during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Mann noted that despite Modi’s warm relationship with global leaders, the issue of Indians being deported from the U.S. under humiliating circumstances was ignored.
“What stopped the Prime Minister from raising this issue with President Trump?” asked Mann. “The Modi government, while hugging President Trump, has failed to protect the dignity of its own citizens.” According to Mann, the government’s failure to bring deportees back with dignity has cast a shadow over India’s international standing and is a direct consequence of the BJP’s ineffective foreign policy.
Security Concerns Raised by Punjab CM
Mann also voiced concerns about the security implications of using Amritsar airport for such sensitive operations. The Sri Guru Ram Dass International Airport, located just 40 kilometers from India’s border with Pakistan, raises national security concerns. The Chief Minister questioned the rationale behind landing foreign planes, especially military aircraft, in close proximity to a potentially volatile border region.
In addition to the security angle, Mann criticized the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for choosing Amritsar for deportation flights when there are numerous other airports in India capable of handling such operations. He questioned why the government repeatedly chose Amritsar, a city that already carries a heavy burden of historical and religious significance.
Punjab Government’s Response to Deportations
Despite his criticism of the federal government, Mann assured that the Punjab government would ensure the welfare and rehabilitation of deportees. Acknowledging the challenges faced by these individuals, many of whom had migrated to the U.S. in search of better opportunities, the CM emphasized that the state would provide adequate lodging, boarding, and rehabilitation support for them upon their return.
“We will make sure that these deportees are safely returned to their homes and provided opportunities for rehabilitation,” Mann stated. “The state government is committed to supporting them and offering resources to help them reintegrate into society.” The Punjab government also pledged to take strict action against illegal travel agents, who have played a role in deceiving many of these deportees.
National Security vs. Diplomatic Relations
Mann’s criticisms raise crucial questions about the balance between national security concerns and diplomatic relations. While maintaining a strong relationship with the United States is essential for India’s global standing, Mann argues that the government should have found a more appropriate way to handle the deportation of Indian nationals. He stressed that the Modi government’s actions reflect a broader failure in foreign policy that risks undermining the dignity of the country’s citizens.
Conclusion: A Call for Dignity and Respect
As the deportation flights continue to land at Amritsar, the question remains whether the Modi government will heed the concerns raised by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann. His outspoken remarks suggest a growing frustration among Punjab’s leadership regarding the treatment of its citizens and the misuse of its sacred land for political and diplomatic purposes.
Mann’s call for respect and dignity for deportees highlights the broader issue of how India interacts with its diaspora and handles foreign relations with countries like the U.S.. The Punjab government continues to take action on the ground, addressing the rehabilitation and welfare of the deported individuals while holding the central government accountable for its choices in handling such sensitive matters.