Discussions in Chandigarh focus on resolving property disputes, improving international flights and strengthening diaspora investment in Punjab
UK Member of Parliament Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi has raised issues concerning the Punjabi diaspora, international air connectivity and investment during a meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in Chandigarh.
Dhesi, who chairs the UK Parliament’s Defence Committee and represents Slough, met Mann at the Chief Minister’s office in the Punjab Legislative Assembly complex on Wednesday. The meeting covered concerns affecting Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Punjab’s wider development priorities.
A key issue raised by Dhesi was the difficulty faced by NRIs in resolving land and property disputes in Punjab. He called for an effective mechanism to settle such cases within a defined timeframe, reducing the need for overseas Indians to make repeated visits to the state or remain involved in lengthy legal proceedings.
-
The two leaders also discussed improving international air connectivity through Amritsar and Chandigarh
-
Dhesi suggested that Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh could play a larger role as aviation hubs for northern India
He stressed the need for more direct international services from destinations including London and Birmingham. Better connectivity, he said, could support tourism, trade, industry and employment while making travel easier for the Punjabi diaspora.
The meeting also covered international cargo and commercial services, with an emphasis on creating better conditions for diaspora investment in Punjab.
Dhesi further expressed concern over alleged threats and extortion targeting businesspersons and sports promoters. He called for greater coordination between India and countries including the UK, Canada, Australia and the US to address such concerns and strengthen confidence among the diaspora and business community.
The discussions also touched on greater use of the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor as a means of promoting regional peace.
