Punjab State Addresses Visa Cancellation Concerns for Students Abroad

Punjab’s cabinet minister Mohinder Bhagat responded to concerns over recent Canadian visa cancellations affecting Punjabi students. He stated that the state government stands firmly with students pursuing education overseas, especially those from Punjab. Bhagat called for a detailed inquiry into each case before any decision is made, arguing that revoking visas after students have spent significant amounts on tuition and travel is unreasonable.

The minister also highlighted the government’s broader employment initiatives aimed at preventing youth from seeking jobs abroad. He explained that under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s leadership and with guidance from AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, the state continuously announces government vacancies. As senior employees retire, new recruitment drives are launched, ensuring a constant supply of jobs.

On the matter of inflation allowances, Bhagat noted that the chief minister has already clarified Punjab’s higher contribution compared to the centre, which is also reviewing the issue. He added that protests alone cannot resolve every challenge.

When questioned about Congress-led demonstrations, Bhagat said he is not authorized to comment on other parties but observed that the Congress appears to have conceded defeat before the elections and is now caught up in internal strife, a problem it must handle internally.