Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday accused the Narendra Modi-led central government of pushing the country into an "undeclared lockdown" while concealing the true state of the economy. He also demanded public disclosure of India's oil, gas, and gold reserves.
Mann's allegations during Patna visit
Speaking to reporters during his visit to Patna, Mann alleged that the Centre suppressed fuel prices until the assembly elections and imposed hikes immediately afterward. "The consequences of these restrictions are being borne by the entire nation while the Centre continues to hide the real condition of the economy," he said, targeting the BJP-led government over inflation and alleged "manipulation of democratic processes."
Demand for disclosure of reserves
Mann said the Prime Minister should disclose the country's oil, gas, and gold reserves so that people could know the actual economic situation. "The people have the right to know the truth about the economy," he emphasized.
Hypocrisy on foreign travel
Mann also alleged hypocrisy in Prime Minister Modi advising people to avoid foreign travel while traveling abroad himself. He said people should not suffer because of the "whims and fancies" of leaders.
Voter list revision in Punjab
On the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Punjab, Mann said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Punjab government would ensure that neither genuine voters are deleted nor fake voters added. He said the process would begin in Punjab from June 15, and AAP volunteers have been directed to remain vigilant throughout the exercise.
Fuel price hike allegations
Targeting the Centre over fuel price hikes, Mann alleged that petrol and diesel prices were kept in check until the elections and raised by ₹3 per liter immediately after the polls. "Under the guise of war in Gulf countries, people are being crushed under the burden of inflation," he alleged, adding that if PM Modi could not explain the country's economic condition and foreign policy, "he should ask his friend, US President Donald Trump, about it."
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act
On the Jaagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, Mann said the law fulfills a long-pending demand of the Sikh sangat by ensuring strict punishment for beadbi (desecration) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. He claimed the legislation is stringent enough to deter future incidents.
Seven AAP MPs joining BJP
Referring to seven AAP MPs joining the BJP, Mann said the party has approached the President seeking action. He added that it is ironic that the BJP, despite having only two MLAs in Punjab, has six Rajya Sabha MPs from the state, which he termed a "murder of democracy."
