Centre Denies Political Clearance for Punjab Minister’s US Visit
In a recent development that has sent shockwaves across the political landscape of Punjab, the Centre has denied political clearance to Punjab Power and Public Works Department Minister Harbhajan Singh for his proposed visit to the United States. The minister was scheduled to attend the NCSL Legislative Summit 2025, to be held in Boston, Massachusetts, from August 4 to 6.
According to reports, the official communication denying permission was reportedly received by the Punjab Government on Thursday. This move has sparked widespread speculation and political debate, with many questioning the Centre’s decision to deny clearance to the Punjab minister.
The NCSL Legislative Summit 2025 is a prestigious event that brings together lawmakers and policymakers from across the globe to discuss pressing issues and share best practices in governance. The summit is expected to attract a large number of dignitaries, including lawmakers, experts, and international delegates.
Harbhajan Singh, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), had been invited to attend the summit as a guest speaker. He was scheduled to deliver a keynote address on the theme of “Effective Governance and Sustainable Development” and was also expected to engage in a series of discussions and roundtable meetings with other delegates.
The denial of political clearance has raised questions about the Centre’s intentions and the reasons behind its decision. Some have speculated that the move may be a political vendetta against the AAP leader, while others have expressed concern about the implications of the Centre’s decision on the state’s relations with the US.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had earlier tweeted about Harbhajan Singh’s invitation to the summit, stating that his government was proud to have a representative at the prestigious event. However, the Centre’s decision to deny clearance has left the Punjab Government red-faced and scrambling to save face.
The AAP has strongly protested the Centre’s decision, accusing the government of being “anti-democratic” and “anti-Punjab”. Party spokespersons have demanded an explanation from the Centre, stating that the denial of clearance is a clear attempt to muzzle the voice of the Punjab Government and its leaders.
The Centre’s decision has also been criticized by opposition parties, which have accused the government of being “authoritarian” and “dictatorial”. The opposition has demanded that the Centre clarify its decision and provide a clear explanation for denying clearance to the Punjab minister.
The Punjab Government has also expressed disappointment and frustration at the Centre’s decision, stating that it has severely impacted the state’s relations with the US. Government officials have expressed concern about the implications of the decision on future collaborations and partnerships between the two countries.
The Centre’s decision has also sparked a debate about the role of the Centre in granting political clearance for state government officials to travel abroad. While some have argued that the Centre has the right to deny clearance in cases where it deems it necessary, others have questioned the Centre’s authority to dictate the travel plans of state government officials.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Punjab Government will respond to the Centre’s decision. Will they continue to press for clearance, or will they find alternative arrangements for Harbhajan Singh’s visit? Only time will tell.
