NEW DELHI: Though the Center has ruled out any package for Punjab before the elections, last ditch efforts are afoot by the Punjab Governor, Surendra Nath, and a section of Congress (I) leaders to announce certain economic incentives for the state. The Center is evidently worried over the decision of an influential section of Akalis not to contest the elections and attempts are still being made to change their stance. While a section of Congress (I) leaders, including some Central ministers, are of the view that announcement of certain development related measures could help in encouraging the Akali groups to contest elections, the other section has argued that it was too late to make fresh overtures. The Governor, who Is in the capital, is also keen on certain incentives for Punjab before the election notification.
An official spokesman said here on Monday that the Center was committed to the Rajiv Longowal accord and added that discussions (on its implementation were on. He reiterated that the Center had never considered a “package” for Punjab and pointed out that the Prime Minister had also ruled out any “package” before the elections.
He said that the ordinance to reduce the campaign period was issued following repeated requests by various political parties , The cabinet met on Sunday and sought to evolve some kind of a balance between the previous provision for campaigning and the demand 10 cut short the period. The spokesman said that various suggestions for attracting the maximum number of people participate in the elections were being examined. These included television telecasts and radio broadcasts.
The Haryana Chief Minister, Lal who was hereto discuss the state’s annual plan outlay, did not discuss the issue concerning the package with any central leader.
Article extracted from this publication >> January 31, 1992
