The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), through its Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal, has strongly questioned the constitutional and moral propriety of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s continued interference in Punjab’s governance. In a strongly worded statement issued today, Chahal asked Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to clarify whether he is truly the Chief Minister of Punjab or if Arvind Kejriwal is functioning as the de facto head of the state.
Chahal expressed serious concern over Kejriwal repeatedly making public announcements, unveiling new policies, and holding official meetings during his visits to Punjab—actions which are exclusively the prerogative of a constitutionally appointed Chief Minister. “Arvind Kejriwal holds no constitutional authority in Punjab. He is neither an elected MLA from the state, nor a minister in the Punjab government. Despite this, he continues to behave as though he is the ‘Super Chief Minister’ of Punjab,” Chahal stated.
He reminded Bhagwant Mann that the people of Punjab voted decisively in 2022 to elect him—not Kejriwal—as their Chief Minister. “The trust of the people is not a transferable asset,” Chahal said. “They did not vote for a proxy government. They voted for Bhagwant Mann to be their leader and representative in the Vidhan Sabha, and to act as the sole constitutional head of the Punjab government.”
Satnam Singh Chahal noted that every time Arvind Kejriwal visits Punjab, he takes center stage at press conferences and official events, often sidelining Mann or using him as a ceremonial figure. This trend not only undermines the dignity of the office of Punjab’s Chief Minister but also insults the constitutional framework of Indian federalism.
Chahal urged CM Bhagwant Mann to come clean with the people of Punjab and the diaspora. “It is high time Bhagwant Mann clears the air and tells the people who is actually running Punjab. Is he merely a puppet, or does he have the moral and constitutional courage to assert his leadership?” Chahal questioned.
The NAPA Executive Director concluded by warning that such political ambiguity could have long-term implications for Punjab’s democratic integrity. “Punjab deserves dignity. Our elected Chief Minister deserves respect. Any backseat driving by an outsider from Delhi must stop immediately,” he added.