Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has ignited a political controversy by criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's frequent foreign visits, alleging that the Prime Minister prioritises international tours over addressing the concerns of 140 crore Indians.
Mann's remarks drew a swift disapproval from the MEA, which termed his comments "irresponsible.", reported PTI
According to PTI, speaking to the media after a cabinet meeting on Thursday, Mann questioned the Prime Minister's recent travels, referencing "Magneshia, Galveshia, Tarveshia" and noting that countries Modi visits often have populations as small as 10,000, where he receives "the biggest award." Mann contrasted this with the situation in India, where, he quipped, "10,000 people gather to watch the JCB machine." He further criticized the Prime Minister for not holding a single press conference in 11 years.
Prime Minister Modi had just returned to India on Thursday after a five-nation tour that included Brazil, Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Namibia.
Without naming Mann, the MEA strongly reacted to his comments, stating that the Government of India "disassociates" itself from the "unwarranted" remarks made by a "high state authority" that undermine India's ties with friendly nations, reported PTI.
