CHANDIGARH: Dy PM Devi Lal said it was not the question of terrorism but of political militancy in Punjab. Speaking at the Press Club here he said political persons took to militancy when all other means failed to get their demands accepted. Bad elements take advantage of the situation and join them. He appealed to political militants to join hands with the centre as the govt now was their own govt. He said he considered Punjab the most important issue and he wanted find a solution at the earliest. An all-party meet was held on Dec 17. The Akali Dal Badal group had not boycotted the meet but rather had given Suggestions. The Mann group too had not boycotted it and talks with them were on.
About the Anandpur Sahib Resolution of 1973 accepted by the Mann group, Mr Devi Lal said the govt would not hold talks with anyone putting forth this issue.
He said his defeat in Ferozpur was due to the role played by ex-governor S S Ray.
On a referendum in Chandigarh, he said the sentiments of the people of Punjab and Haryana would have to be taken into consideration.
Article extracted from this publication >> December 22, 1989
