Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly criticized the Central Government for its alleged plan to eliminate 8,02,994 ration cards under the Public Distribution System (PDS), a decision that could strip free ration benefits from nearly 32 lakh people in Punjab. Mann accused the Centre of enforcing rigid eligibility rules that unfairly target the state’s population.

He pointed out that the Central Government applies different standards for Punjab compared to other regions, ignoring state-specific needs. The criteria for canceling ration cards include owning a four-wheeler, having a business turnover above ₹25 lakh, holding more than 2.5 acres of land, or being a government employee. Mann argued that these conditions penalize entire families for the circumstances of a single member, such as owning a vehicle or securing a government job, calling it an unjust approach.

“Why should an entire family lose their ration card if one member moves to a city for a job? This policy seems designed to leave people hungry,” Mann stated, pledging to prevent any ration card cancellations during his tenure.

Mann highlighted that Punjab has provided rations to 1.53 crore beneficiaries, with 1.29 crore already verified. He urged the Centre to allow more time to complete the verification process for the remaining beneficiaries instead of abruptly revoking cards. The state has formally requested a six-month extension to resolve the issue.

Targeting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mann accused them of shifting from “stealing votes” to “stealing rations.” He also criticized Central schemes for creating a cycle of exclusion, where beneficiaries are disqualified for possessing assets like stoves or homes provided under those schemes.

Mann raised concerns about schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, where eligibility is allegedly denied for owning basic amenities like a brick house, ceiling fan, table, scooter, or electricity meter. He noted that approximately 24,000 ration cardholders in Punjab own four-wheelers, which the Centre is using as grounds for exclusion.

Further, Mann alleged that BJP leaders are collecting sensitive personal information, such as Aadhaar details and phone numbers, under the pretext of organizing camps, questioning the legality of these actions. He reiterated his government’s commitment to protecting Punjab’s residents.

The Chief Minister said he had previously raised these issues with the Prime Minister and union Home Minister, questioning why Punjab faces stricter regulations. Mann assured the public that his government would continue to oppose the Centre’s efforts to limit essential benefits for the people of Punjab.