'Opposition spreading rumours': Bhagwant Mann on Arvind Kejriwal eyeing Punjab CM post claim

NEW DELHI: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday criticised opposition parties for "spreading rumours" regarding claims that AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal intended to become the chief minister of Punjab after the party's loss in the Delhi assembly elections.

When asked about these claims, Mann questioned, "Is it possible?" and pointed out that the opposition parties say whatever comes to their minds, referring to their earlier statements.

Mann accused the opposition of merely spreading false information, taking aim at rival party leaders.

This follows a meeting on February 11, where Kejriwal gathered with Mann, Punjab ministers, and AAP MLAs in Delhi, after the Delhi poll setback. Several opposition leaders had criticized Kejriwal for holding the meeting with Punjab lawmakers.Next plane carrying deportees may not land in Punjab: CM

Mann further expressed hope that any future US plane carrying deportees may not land in the state, following strong opposition to the arrival of three such aircraft in Amritsar earlier.

"I strongly opposed the landing of US planes carrying deportees in Amritsar," Mann told reporters in Sardulgarh when asked about the issue. "But now, I believe that due to this opposition, if another plane comes, it will at least not land in Amritsar or anywhere in Punjab."

The AAP leader had earlier criticized the BJP-led central government for permitting three US military planes carrying deported Indian immigrants to land in Amritsar. He alleged that the Centre was attempting to tarnish Punjab’s image under a deliberate conspiracy.

Condemning the move, Mann urged the government not to turn the holy city into a "deportation hub" and suggested that such flights be directed to other airports like Delhi. He emphasized that deportation is a national issue but is being projected as if only Punjabis migrate illegally.

Three US aircraft carrying deported Indian nationals from Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and other states arrived at Amritsar airport on February 5, 15, and 16 amid a crackdown by the Donald Trump administration on illegal immigrants.

On the issue of deportees, Mann assured that they would be provided opportunities in Punjab. "If any of them qualify for exams for posts like patwari, deputy superintendent of police, or sub-divisional officer, they will be given jobs. We will not let them fall into depression," he added.

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