CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi today strongly refuted allegations by Prime Minister Narender Modi regarding breach in his security during Ferozepur visit. PM has returned without addressing a rally after road block by farmers.
At a press conference here Channi said that security of Prime Minister was utmost important for state government though all arrangements of security were handled by the Special Protection Group, IB and central intelligence agencies. He said that there was no plan of PM travelling through road in the written programme sent by PMO to Punjab government. "I am not aware why PM choose to travle by road when he was scheduled to travel by helicopter from Bathinda airport to Ferozepur", Channi quipped.
Channi said that farmers were agitating and blocked certain roads yesterday and roads were cleated after his personal intevention. Since there was no intimation about PM travelling through road, it was not a security lapse of farmers had blocked the road. PM staff was informed before hand that road is blocked and it may take some time to clear it.
Chief Minister said that three helipads were build in Ferozepur and it was decided by PM office that PM will land at Bathinda airport and travel to Ferozepur in military helicopter. If PM has issued any statement due to political consideration, it was unfortunate. He said that this issue shall not be linked with security as there was no threat ot PM in Punjab.
Channi revelaed that he had got a call from Union Home Minister Amit Shah that PM's way was blocked and PM has decided to return to Delhi. He said that he was in touch with IB director and Union Home Minister on security arrangements and fool proof security arrangements were made.
Channi also claified why he didnt go to receive PM on the airport because two of his staff members had tested Corona positive. He had sought directions from PM office and advised by them not to receive PM. He had then deputed Finance Minister Manpreet Badal. He said that Deputy CM was waiting for PM at Ferozepur helipad.
Channi said that farmers who are agitating against center government were not terrorists. They had earlier continued their agitation on Delhi border and PM accepted their demand. He said that he cant open fire on farmers simply because they are agitating for their demands.
He said that he was not interested to do politics on this issue and also urged others not to politicise the issue. He said that Punjab was peaceful state and there is no threat to life of PM.