PM Narendra Modi stuck on Punjab flyover, Ferozepur rally cancelled; Centre says major security lapse

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was stuck on a flyover in Punjab for 15-20 minutes due to blockade by some protesters. As PM Modi's car remained stuck on the flyover, SPG personnel sprung into action and surrounded his car to prevent any untoward incident. The Union Home Ministry has described this incident as a "major lapse" in PM’s security.

The prime minister was on his way to the National Martyrs Memorial at Hussainiwala from Bathinda when the incident occurred. After major security lapse in PM's travel in Punjab, his convoy decided to head back to Bathinda airport.

PM Modi was scheduled to address a rally in Punjab after a gap of two years, and for the first time since the repeal of farm laws. Hours before the rally was scheduled, three approach roads leading to the venue in Ferozepur were blocked by protestors.

Reacting to the incident, Punjab CM Charanjit Channi told a regional channel “No security lapse. PM’s road plans were made at the last minute. He was supposed to go by helicopter. I was up late at night overseeing security arrangements for his rally. 70,000 chairs were put up for rally but only 700 people turned up.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs has sought a report from the state government asking how the PM’s cavalcade was stranded on a flyover for over 15 minutes due to a protest, when his programme had been duly communicated to the state police.