India, Sept. 4 -- Punjab finance and taxation minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Thursday called upon the Government of India to demonstrate the same humanitarian spirit towards Punjab as it has shown in extending aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan after Monday's earthquake.

In a statement, Cheema questioned the central government's priorities, asking why relief material was swiftly despatched to Afghanistan, while flood-affected Punjab is facing delays in receiving financial and humanitarian assistance.

He emphasised that Punjab, a state that has consistently contributed to the nation's food security and economic strength, deserves timely and adequate assistance in its hour of need. "If humanitarian aid can be sent across borders, then why ...