Mann Vows to Protect Punjabis’ Ration Cards, Slams Centre’s Actions

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the central government of attempting to remove names from ration cards, impacting a significant number of people in the state. Mann stated that the center intends to remove names under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), and his government is opposing this. He criticized the central government’s criteria, which exclude those with cars or large land holdings, and said that this would affect around 32 lakh people. He mentioned that his government has requested a six-month extension from the central government to verify the beneficiaries. Mann shared that the central government is planning to stop free rations for 55 lakh poor Punjabis, and this is unacceptable. Mann has said the government is making excuses and cutting off rations using technical reasons. He sees this as a fight for the dignity and rights of the poor, supported by his government.