Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly objected to the Centre’s decision to cancel the visit of Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan for Parkash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev. He accused the BJP-led government of adopting a discriminatory approach towards Punjab and its people.
Mann questioned the Centre’s policy, asking whether it was directed against Pakistan or its own citizens. He said that while Punjabi films featuring Pakistani artists were banned, cricket matches with Pakistan were permitted. According to him, this double standard unfairly targets Punjab’s cultural and religious life.
He pointed out that films shot before the Pahalgam attack were still banned, calling the move unjust. “Punjabi actors and producers are called traitors, but when it comes to cricket, the same voices remain silent,” he said. Mann argued that if sporting ties are allowed, there is no reason to stop Sikh devotees from visiting Kartarpur Sahib and Nankana Sahib.
The Chief Minister also criticised the Centre for neglecting Punjab’s pressing needs. He said the state was still awaiting the Rs 1,600 crore in relief funds announced by the Prime Minister for flood recovery. “Aid is sent abroad in times of crisis, but Punjab has been denied its rightful support,” Mann said.
He challenged state BJP leaders Sunil Jakhar and Ravneet Bittu to explain why the government allowed cricket with Pakistan while preventing pilgrims from fulfilling a spiritual obligation. Mann said the decision reflects continued hostility from the Centre towards Punjab.
