Political Storm Over Amritsar as US Deportation Flights Spark Controversy

Punjab - The recent arrival of U.S. military aircraft in Amritsar, repatriating Indian nationals deported from the United States, has ignited a fierce political debate in Punjab. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann questioned the central government's decision to designate Amritsar as the landing site, suggesting it was an attempt to tarnish Punjab's image. He provocatively asked, "You select Amritsar to defame Punjab... Is this the gift Trump has given?"  

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swiftly countered Mann's assertions. BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal accused Aam Aadmi Party leaders of prioritizing politics over national security, stating they "do not care about the security of the country." BJP MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa highlighted the exploitation of Punjabi youth by unscrupulous travel agents, criticizing the state government's inaction against such practices. He lamented that individuals are "selling their lands to leave Punjab," a stark contrast to promises of prosperity.  

Further complicating the narrative, Congress leaders questioned the rationale behind choosing Amritsar over Delhi for these flights. Jalandhar Cantt MLA Pargat Singh suggested that the decision was a deliberate move to defame Punjab, especially since many deportees hailed from other states like Gujarat and Haryana.  

This controversy underscores the complex interplay between federal decisions and state perceptions. While the central government maintains that Amritsar was chosen due to logistical considerations, opposition voices argue that such actions unfairly stigmatize Punjab. As the debate intensifies, the focus shifts to the broader implications of immigration policies and the narratives they shape within India's diverse regions.