📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Amitabhilash
Politics
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann cleared by High Court for France trip after Centre's denial
✍️ India Today
🗓 17 Oct 2026, 12:19 AM
👁 15
The Punjab chief minister’s planned visit to France has been approved by the High Court following the central government’s earlier refusal.
The Punjab High Court has ruled that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann may proceed with his scheduled trip to France, overturning a prior refusal by the Union government. The court’s order clears the way for the state leader to travel abroad for official engagements.
Mann’s visit, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and trade links with France, had been put on hold after the centre denied permission. The High Court found no legal barrier to the trip and stated that the state’s request fell within constitutional provisions.
Following the judgment, the chief minister expressed satisfaction, saying the decision will enable Punjab to explore opportunities for cooperation with French counterparts. The ruling also highlights the ongoing tension between state and central authorities over jurisdiction in foreign visits.
Legal experts noted that the verdict reaffirms the autonomy of state governments to seek foreign engagements when they serve regional interests, provided procedural norms are met.
The decision is expected to pave the way for a series of discussions between Punjab officials and French representatives on trade, investment and cultural exchange.
Mann’s visit, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and trade links with France, had been put on hold after the centre denied permission. The High Court found no legal barrier to the trip and stated that the state’s request fell within constitutional provisions.
Following the judgment, the chief minister expressed satisfaction, saying the decision will enable Punjab to explore opportunities for cooperation with French counterparts. The ruling also highlights the ongoing tension between state and central authorities over jurisdiction in foreign visits.
Legal experts noted that the verdict reaffirms the autonomy of state governments to seek foreign engagements when they serve regional interests, provided procedural norms are met.
The decision is expected to pave the way for a series of discussions between Punjab officials and French representatives on trade, investment and cultural exchange.