National Times Bureau :- Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has levelled serious allegations against the central government, claiming it is planning to cancel 8,02,493 ration cards across the state, potentially depriving around 32 lakh residents of essential food supplies.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Mann stated that Punjab has a total of 1.53 crore ration card holders, out of which 1.29 crore beneficiaries have already been verified. He urged the Centre to grant the state six more months to complete the verification process before taking any action.
“Punjab feeds the nation by contributing the bulk of its wheat supply. No one in Punjab will go hungry as long as I am the Chief Minister,” Mann said, assuring that the state government would make alternative arrangements if necessary.
He also criticised neighbouring states, alleging double standards. “When there is water shortage, Haryana and Rajasthan demand water from Punjab. But now, when our districts are drowning due to floods, no one is asking for water,” he remarked. Mann further announced that a special survey has been ordered to assess crop damage in flood-affected areas and compensation will be provided to farmers accordingly.
