Don’t erect a border between Punjab and India, talk to farmers: CM Mann to Centre

The Punjab CM was reacting to the Haryana government's effort to erect heavy fencing along national highways and other roads at the Punjab border.

Written by Kamaldeep Singh Brar

Amritsar | Updated: February 12, 2024 07:40 AM IST

3 min read

"What is happening in Haryana? They are installing fencing on the Punjab border. I request the central government to engage in talks with farmers," Mann said. (PTI Photo)

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has urged the central government not to build a border between Punjab and India. He made this appeal during a rally after inaugurating the Guru Amar Das Ji power plant at Goindwal Sahib on Sunday. The Punjab government acquired a functional power plant from a private company, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also participated in the rally held at the village Sharon near Tarn Taran.

Reacting to the Haryana government’s effort to erect heavy fencing along national highways and other roads at the Punjab border, Punjab CM said, “What is happening in Haryana? They are installing fencing on the Punjab border. I request the central government to engage in talks with farmers. Please avoid creating the India-Punjab border. Are you establishing a border? Similar fencing exists with Pakistan.”

Haryana government sources explained that the fencing aims to prevent Punjab farmers from entering Haryana to reach Delhi on February 13, as farmer unions have called for a protest in Delhi. The CM added, “When it comes to wheat and rice, where would you go? The borders open during those times. Special trains come to Punjab. We have been providing you with food, filling your stomachs. We have made significant contributions to the freedom struggle. Treat us as your own.”

Also Read | Delhi Chalo march: Centre opens direct line of communication with farmers, calls meeting on Feb 12

“Our soldiers are standing on the border. They take the bullet before you even know. Yet, there is no salute to some martyrs because they are Agniveers. The hate we face is so intense that they might erase Punjab from the national anthem. Removing Punjab from the national anthem only requires passing a bill,” said Bhagwant Mann.

In an attack on Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal), Mann also mentioned the use of religion against him. Without specifying the Akal Takht’s decision to hold him responsible for the alleged firing incident at Gurudwara Akal Bunga in Kapurthala, Bhagwant Mann stated, “They are using religion, employing the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee. However, people don’t heed them. We are God-fearing people. Can we commit sacrilege? We are the ones investigating sacrilege incidents. It’s a problem for them. They are desperate to halt Bhagwant Mann, but the people are with me.”

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