The High Court has questioned the central government regarding the denial of political clearance for Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's proposed visit to France, noting that no clear grounds were provided for the decision.
The observation came after the Ministry of External Affairs denied travel clearance for the Punjab chief minister, citing a political angle behind the withholding of permission, according to reporting by The Times of India. In its review of the Centre's position on the matter, the High Court observed that no reasons are forthcoming to explain why the clearance was withheld for the official trip abroad.
High Court Scrutiny Over Central Clearance
The central government's refusal to grant clearance to the chief minister has drawn judicial attention. Chief ministers and state ministers in India require formal political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs before undertaking official foreign travel. When evaluating the central government's decision to withhold permission for the France trip, the High Court addressed the lack of detailed justification provided by authorities regarding the refusal, as reported by The Times of India.
Political Reaction in Punjab
The travel plans have also triggered debate within state politics. Punjab opposition parties took political swipes at Bhagwant Mann over the planned trip to France, questioning the timing and purpose of the visit and labeling it a birthday trip, according to reporting by NDTV.
The denial by the Ministry of External Affairs and the subsequent remarks from the High Court reflect growing scrutiny over the procedures and grounds used by the central administration when deciding on travel requests submitted by state leaders.
