The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday denied political clearance to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for his travel to Paris. The MEA has cited security reasons for denying the permission. The Chief Minister's Office received information on late Friday evening.
Mann, who holds a diplomatic passport, was planned to visit Paris from August 3 to 9 for the Indian hockey team's quarterfinal match on August 4. He had sought political clearance for his visit.
While denying the permission, the Centre said that since Mann is a Z-Plus security protectee, it is not possible to arrange his level of security at short notice, the source in the state government said.
Indian Hockey team defeats Australia after 52 years
Notably, the Indian Hockey team registered a record victory against Australia in the Paris Olympics by defeating them after 52 years. India defeated Australia by 3-2 in their first Olympic win against the formidable rival since 1972. Bhagwant Mann on Friday congratulated the Indian hockey contingent.
In a message, CM Mann said India has drubbed the Australian squad after a gap of 52 years. "It is a matter of great pride and satisfaction that India defeated Australia by 3-2. Harmanpreet Singh led the team to victory by scoring two goals in this important match," Mann said. The entire team made the entire country feel proud by this victory against Australia, he added.
(With PTI Inputs)
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