From Our Special Correspondent

Chandigarh: The Punjab Chief Minister S. Sujit Singh Barnala has reportedly threatened the Indian Prime Minister, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi that if the Mathew Commission decided in favor of giving Abohar and Fazilka to Haryana in lieu of Chandigarh, then, he would be left with no option but to recommend dissolution of Punjab Assembly and re imposition of President’s rule in the State. According to sources, Mr. Barnala conveyed his stand to the Prime Minister when he went to Delhi to part icipate National Development Council meeting. Akali circles feel that the central government is not prepared to risk presidential rule in Punjab at this time. They expect that only some villages of Patiala and Sangrur districts may be transferred to Haryana. Mathew commission is scheduled to submit its report by November 30. An eminent lawyer Mr. Sorabji is representing Punjab Government before the Mathew commission. Haryana is being represented by Mr.

 

Venu Gopal.

Article extracted from this publication >>  November 22, 1985