From Our Special Correspondent
The New Akali Govt led by Surjit Singh Barnala in Punjab will complete the construction work of Sutlej Jamuna Link Canal by the end of next year. Assurance to this effect was given to The Indian Govt. by Akali Govt 2 days back. The Indian Govt assured uninterrupted flow of funds for the construction of this canal which will carry water to Haryana. Interestingly 3 years back during the Congress rule in Punjab.
Akali Dal launched a morcha to stop the construction work on the canal and thousands of Akali workers gave arrests in the morcha. According to Akali’s closest circles Mr. Barnala has also issued Indian Govt that certain senior officers of the central govt. working in Punjab will not be shifted or disturbed. According to Punjab Raj Bhawan circles, Akali govt. has also assured that no important decision concerning the State law order will be taken without consulting the Union Home Ministry. According to these circles Mr. RoP. Ohja IAS was appointed as Secretary for Home on the recommendation of Punjab Raj Bhawan. Although most of the Akali ministers wanted Mr. Sawarn Singh Boparai to be the Home Secretary. According to political circles main purpose of Mr. Barnala’s meeting with the Prime Minister was to assure the latter of Akali Govt’s cooperation in curbing the activities of the “terrorists” in Punjab.
Article extracted from this publication >> October 11, 1985
