CHANDIGARH, India: The Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Sunjit ‘Singh Barnala, formally informed the Desai Commission of Akali Government’s decision to boycott the Commission as its terms of reference were not consistent with the Punjab Accord, Mr. Barnala who had met Mr. Desai at Delhi few days-back at his invitation told the commission that he will make neither written nor oral submision before the commission on the territorial issue. Mr. Barnala who was with Mr. Desai for more than an hour said that he did not present his view on any issue in view of the decision of his government to boycott. Asked if his decision would not cause further delay in the transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab beyond the new dead line of July 15. Mr. Barnala said, “What can I do”. Earlier Haryana Chief Minister, Mr. Bansi Lal, also met the Chief Minister and explained the State government’s case.
Article extracted from this publication >> July 18, 1986
