Sat Feb 15 05:30:58 UTC 2025: **Punjab CM Accuses Centre of Defaming State Over US Deportation Flights**

AMRITSAR, PUNJAB – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has launched a scathing attack on the central government, accusing it of deliberately targeting Punjab by directing flights carrying deported Indian nationals from the United States to land in Amritsar. A second flight carrying 119 deportees, including 67 from Punjab, is expected to arrive in Amritsar today, following a previous flight last week that sparked outrage over the treatment of the deportees.

Mann alleges that the BJP-led central government is using Amritsar as a landing site to unfairly stigmatize Punjab, highlighting the disproportionate number of Punjabis among those deported while ignoring the significant number from other states like Gujarat and Haryana. He questioned why Amritsar was chosen when other major Indian airports exist, suggesting a politically motivated decision aimed at defaming the state.

The chief minister points to the lack of media coverage given to deportees from other states, arguing that only the plight of Punjabis is being publicized. He further demanded an explanation from the Ministry of External Affairs regarding the selection of Amritsar and criticized the lack of response to his repeated appeals.

The BJP has rejected Mann’s accusations, with party spokesperson RP Singh claiming that Amritsar’s proximity to the US makes it the most practical landing site. They further accuse Mann of exploiting the situation for political gain. BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal stated that AAP leaders are prioritizing politics over national security.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously defended the government’s position in the Rajya Sabha, stating that the deportations are a standard procedure and that India is obligated to repatriate its citizens living illegally abroad. However, Mann maintains that the issue is being unfairly focused on Punjab and continues to press for answers from the central government. The controversy continues, with Mann vowing to continue his fight against what he calls a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of Punjab and its people.

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