BJP vs Punjab Chief Minister: The Sikh Pilgrimage Controversy

A BJP leader criticized Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for his comments against the Centre's decision to deny Sikh jathas permission to visit Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev's 'Parkash Purb' in November. The BJP cited security threats in Pakistan as the reason behind the refusal.

A BJP leader has publicly criticized Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for his stance against the Centre's decision to deny permission to Sikh jathas to visit Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev's 'Parkash Purb' celebrations. The rejection was based on perceived security threats within Pakistan, a neighboring nation often embroiled in tension.

BJP national spokesperson R P Singh questioned Bhagwant Mann by asking who would bear responsibility should any Indian pilgrim face danger in Pakistan. Singh emphatically highlighted that intelligence inputs warn of potential mishaps impacting the pilgrims.

Recently, Mann had condemned the Centre for allowing an Asia Cup T20 event involving India and Pakistan but restricting religious pilgrimage, a decision that has sparked a heated political debate. BJP's response underscores their focus on ensuring the safety of Indian citizens, as demonstrated by past evacuation efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

(With inputs from agencies.)