Tableau Controversy Erupts in Punjab
Punjab’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, has accused the Federal government of allegedly stonewalling Punjab’s tableau from participating in the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. He termed the decision as “unfortunate”.
Address To The Public On Republic Day
On the commemoration of India’s 75th Republic Day in Ludhiana, Mann addressed a gathering after the hoisting of the national flag. He expressed dismay over the exclusion of Punjab’s tableau, asking why the national festivities couldn’t include Punjab. He urged those responsible for this omission to justify their actions.
The chief minister highlighted that through these tableaus, the rich and diverse culture of Punjab had been aptly demonstrated by the state government.
Feedback on The Parade Decision
Mann expressed his dissatisfaction with the Union government’s alleged marginalization of Punjab’s contributions and sacrifices. He says such behavior is unwarranted and inexcusable, and the state has vocally contested this decision.
According to the Chief Minister, the state government pragmatically represented the state’s significant contribution through various tableaus across the Republic Day celebrations.
A Tribute to Heroes Ignored?
Mann criticized the Union government for allegedly belittling heroes, such as Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Mai Bhago, Ghadri Baabe, among others. He says it was achieved by rejecting the state’s tableau that symbolized their sacrifices. Additionally, he sees this as an intolerable affront to these distinguished patriots and national leaders.
Allegations of an Agrarian Conspiracy
The Punjab Chief Minister also suggested that schemes are afoot to deprive Punjab’s farmers of their fair Minimum Support Price (MSP). He referred to this as “discriminatory and pitiful”.
Accusations Against Other Political Parties
Mann also directed some criticism towards previous Congress and the Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) administrations. According to him, the youth were previously deprived of opportunities in education and employment, which forced them to rely on political leaders. Mann asserted that this culture is now being eradicated, paving the way for youth to become significant contributors to Punjab’s growth and prosperity.
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