Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's visit to France to attend the SIAL 2026 food trade show triggered sharp political criticism from opposition leaders over state drug crises and financial troubles.
BJP leader Tarun Chugh and SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia accused Mann of taking a family vacation using taxpayers' money while the state faces severe drug abuse issues.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court earlier ruled in favor of the state government's plea challenging the Centre's denial of political clearance for the international visit.