Talks in Chandigarh focus on direct flights, cargo infrastructure, overseas property disputes and the concerns of Punjabis living abroad.
Chandigarh, August 22: UK Member of Parliament Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi met Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Ravjot Singh in Chandigarh to discuss a range of issues concerning the Punjabi diaspora, including international air connectivity, protection of overseas-owned property and the reopening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor.
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee executive member Paramjit Singh Raipur was also present at the meeting, according to a report by Face2News.
The discussions placed particular emphasis on expanding direct international flights from Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport in Amritsar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh. The leaders also discussed improving direct links between Punjab and London, Birmingham and other major European cities.
Better cargo facilities at both airports were also highlighted as important for strengthening trade and economic ties between Punjab and the overseas Punjabi community. Dhesi said improved air and freight connectivity could support industry, agriculture, tourism, trade, employment and investment in the state.
The meeting also addressed difficulties faced by NRIs in land and property disputes. Dhesi called for time-bound mechanisms to resolve such cases and reduce the need for overseas Indians to make repeated trips to Punjab. Property fraud, cybercrime and other complaints affecting the diaspora were also raised.
Safety concerns involving Punjabi businesspeople, industrialists and sports promoters living abroad, including alleged threats and extortion demands, were discussed. Dhesi said such issues should be brought to the attention of the Central Government and relevant security agencies.
The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was another key issue. Dhesi has previously called for its reopening to facilitate pilgrimage. The corridor has remained suspended since May 7, 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Ravjot Singh assured that the Punjab Government would continue to take up issues affecting overseas Punjabis at the appropriate levels.
