• Bhagwant Mann’s proposed Lahore visit faces a clearance hurdle.
• Punjab CM reportedly invited as chief guest to a Punjabi conference.
• MEA says foreign travel clearances follow India’s national policy.
• Centre refers to its position on Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack.

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 14th Nov: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is unlikely to receive political clearance to attend an international Punjabi conference in Lahore later this month, with the Centre pointing to India’s established policy towards Pakistan.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India follows a national policy in dealing with foreign countries and expects everyone to abide by it.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said political clearances for dignitaries travelling abroad are assessed in line with the government’s overall policy before being processed.

Responding to questions about Mann’s reported invitation as chief guest to the fourth International Punjabi Conference in Lahore from November 27 to 29, Jaiswal said India’s position on Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack should be clear to all.

The remarks indicate that Mann’s proposed visit faces a hurdle amid the continuing strain in India-Pakistan relations.

Jaiswal did not announce a formal decision on the Chief Minister’s request but reiterated that overseas visits by political dignitaries are subject to the MEA’s assessment and clearance process.