Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Centre’s foreign policy, accusing it of weakening India’s sovereignty.
Speaking to reporters after a cabinet meeting, Mann questioned the development in which the United States allowed India to continue purchasing Russian oil. He said that while the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party projects its leaders as “Vishwa Guru,” the situation suggests that the country is being treated as a “follower” instead.
Mann asked whether India would now need permission from the White House for such decisions and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify the government’s stand.
The chief minister also said that the Punjab government would oppose the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act expected to be introduced in Parliament on March 10.
He stated that sectors such as power, health and education fall under the jurisdiction of states and added that the state would strongly oppose any central interference in these matters.
Responding to questions about transport buses being painted in yellow and blue colours associated with the Aam Aadmi Party, Mann said the buses are privately operated under the kilometre scheme and operators are free to choose their colours.
He also questioned critics, asking why amphibious buses purchased earlier for Harike and the state government’s helicopter were painted in colours associated with the Shiromani Akali Dal during the previous government.
