'Foreigners will seek jobs here', says Punjab chief minister, hit with criticism

Speaking on the 'brain drain from the state, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that even foreigners would move to Punjab to find jobs.

Opposition and youth members have criticized Mann's remarks, pointing out that he should focus on the state's issues rather than fantasizing about 'whites' coming to Punjab.

"Even this year there's a possibility of 3 lakh children going abroad. Not just our children, 15 lakh also leaves the country per person. Give us some time, we will create such an environment that foreigners will come seeking jobs in Punjab, Mr Mann said in a video clip shared on his Twitter handle.

In light of the costs of leaving, he urged the youth to stay in the country and serve the country instead of going abroad. This 'brain drain' must stop, he said, and he reassured that nobody will have to leave to seek employment in the future.

MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira, from the Punjab Congress, responded quickly with a list of issues that the Chief Minister must address in order to make our house in order before foreigners approach the state.

"I really hope foreigners approach PB for jobs but before that we have to set our house in order! Ensure job opportunities for youth,maintain law & order,end corruption,depoliticise police & civil machinery,stop indebted farmers & labourers from committing suicides & a just rule," he said.