Punjab Pradesh Congress Chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring on Friday dismissed Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's defence regarding his removal of a mask during a public event as a 'lame afterthought'. Warring accused the CM of offering an excuse that lacked credibility and was made only after the issue gained public attention.
Congress slams CM's explanation
Speaking to reporters in Chandigarh, Warring said that Mann's justification for not wearing a mask was an afterthought and did not hold water. He questioned the timing of the explanation, noting that it came only after widespread criticism on social media and news outlets. Warring demanded that the CM should be more responsible and set a proper example for the public, especially during health emergencies.
According to Warring, the Congress party would raise the matter in the assembly and seek a formal clarification from the state government. He also alleged that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government was more focused on optics than on substantive governance.
Background of the controversy
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced showing CM Bhagwant Mann without a mask at a crowded public gathering, despite the state government's own advisories on COVID-appropriate behaviour. The opposition had earlier accused Mann of violating health protocols and setting a poor example for citizens.
In response, the CM's office had issued a statement claiming that Mann had removed the mask momentarily due to a medical condition. However, Warring dismissed this explanation, saying that no such condition was ever disclosed to the public or the health department.
Political fallout and demands
Warring also called on the state government to issue a detailed health bulletin regarding the CM's condition, if indeed there was a medical reason. He argued that without such evidence, the claim was merely an attempt to deflect criticism.
The Congress leader further accused the AAP government of hypocrisy, pointing out that the same administration had imposed fines on citizens for not wearing masks in public. He demanded that the CM should be held to the same standard as ordinary citizens.
Government's response and next steps
As of now, the AAP government has not issued a detailed rejoinder to Warring's statements. Political analysts suggest that the issue could become a flashpoint in the upcoming assembly session, where the Congress is likely to push for a discussion on the matter.
Warring concluded by stating that the Congress party would continue to hold the government accountable for its actions and would not allow such lapses to go unnoticed. He urged the CM to apologize to the people of Punjab for his conduct.
