Punjab CM to Boycott Niti Aayog Meeting Over Withheld Funds

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced he would boycott the upcoming Niti Aayog meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing withheld state funds including the rural development fund and National Health Mission funds. Mann criticized the union budget for ignoring Punjab's needs and rights.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday announced his decision to boycott the Niti Aayog meeting scheduled for July 27, which will be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During a media address in Jalandhar, Mann criticized the BJP-led NDA government for withholding crucial funds intended for Punjab, including the rural development fund and those under the National Health Mission.

Mann also slammed the union budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on July 23, stating that Punjab's issues and deserving rights were neglected. He emphasized that these grievances have led him to refuse participation in the upcoming meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)