NEW DELHE: Punjab is unlikely to go to the polls with other states in Feb if the discussions the PM had with leaders of various parties is any indication. The Union govt is likely to disregard S S Ray’s recommendation to hold early elections.
The consensus at the all the party meets seems to be to end the alienation of Sikhs without weakening the fight against the so-called terrorism and secessionism. The polls may be held in April May after the situation is reviewed and a free and fair election was ensured.
One suggestion mooted was amending the constitution to extend President’s rule beyond the two year term which ends on May 11. Broad hints were thrown that the Congress-I would be willing to help the govt on amending the constitution.
Article extracted from this publication >> December 22, 1989
