Centre's protocol 'ignores' Cong leaders in Kartarpur Sahib corridor function: Pb min

Punjab minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa Sunday reacted sharply to the official protocol for the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Dera Baba Nanak - Kartarpur Sahib corridor on the Indian side, saying many of the state Congress leaders and ministers have been "ignored".

The foundation stone for the corridor to the Sikh shrine in Pakistan will be laid on the Indian side by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday.

Rural and Urban Development Minister Bajwa protested against the manner of arrangements for the function by the Centre, saying "Punjab leaders and ministers have not been given any space" in its lists of speakers and those sharing the stage.

The religious leaders have also objected to the decision to field Union Minister (and SAD MP) Harsimrat Kaur Badal to propose the vote of thanks in the function, he said, adding "the Sant Samaj has threatened to walk out, if she is given this role."