40 mins ago

Mann, Saini clash over turban remark and Punjab politics

Mann, Saini clash over turban remark and Punjab politics
Nayab Saini feels he will win Punjabis’ hearts with ‘fake turbans’, says Mann; Haryana CM hits back · theprint.in

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticised Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for wearing turbans during visits to Punjab.

Mann said the turbans would not help Saini win Punjabi hearts.

Saini said this comment was disrespectful because the turban is important to Sikh faith and tradition.

He asked Mann to apologise to the people of Punjab.

Saini also criticised Punjab’s AAP government for its handling of drugs and other issues.

He said Punjab needs jobs, industry security and real development.

Saini compared Haryana’s economic progress with Punjab’s progress.

He predicted that the BJP would win the next Punjab Assembly election.

Key facts

Central dispute
Bhagwant Mann said Nayab Singh Saini could not win Punjabi hearts by wearing “fake turbans.”
Saini’s response
Saini called the remark highly unfortunate and demanded an apology.
Turban significance
Saini said the turban represents respect for Sikh Gurus, faith, belief and reverence.
Political setting
Saini has frequently visited Punjab, where Assembly elections are due early next year.
Saini’s criticisms
He attacked the AAP government over drugs, development, employment, industrial security, announcements and advertisements.
Election prediction
Saini said he expected the BJP to form Punjab’s government after the Assembly polls.
Earlier turban appearance
Saini wore a saffron turban while presenting Haryana’s 2026–27 budget in March.

Quotes

Nayab Singh Saini

Chief Minister of Haryana

“For us, the turban represents respect for our gurus. It is a matter of faith, belief and reverence for us. It is a tradition bestowed upon us by our gurus.”
theprint.in
“He feels that he will win the hearts of Punjabis by sporting fake turbans. But that is not possible.”
theprint.in

Sources

Related news