WSN Service
CHANDIGARH: The Janata Dal is taking quiet measures to bring about unity among the Badal and Barnala factions of the Akali Dal presumably to strengthen them against the Mann Akali Dal in the context of future assembly elections in Punjab.
The VP Singh Govt is said to be disappointed with Simranjit Singh Mann who has shown no inclination to come to open or secret terms before elections could be held. A compromise is reported to be coming about on holding Punjab elections notwithstanding the Govt’s public stand that free and fair elections were not possible.
As a prelude to the merger of Badal and Barnala groups the center is keen on removing irritants, The Badal group is not willing to come to terms with Barnala group unless its chief is removed from the scene, Barnala’s image among Sikhs is rated very low.
Delhi recently sounded Barnala to go to Tamil Nadu state as its governor. He showed reluctance to be assured a place in the sun. A formula is being worked out to appoint Barnala man preferably Tota Singh as vice president of the reunited Akali Dal under Badal.
The Deputy Prime Minister wants Barnala to the chief minister of Punjab to protect Haryana’s interests particularly the on the river waters issue. While constitutional experts reject any claim of Haryana to Punjab Rivers, Badal is willing to concede such a right to Haryana provided he was made chief minister.
As a prelude Barnala on Sunday resigned as president of his faction of the Dal. Last week he held a closed door with the SGPC president GS Tohra. Ramoowalia’s appointment as member of minority’s commission may not be unconnected with the new arrangements with pro Delhi Akalis,
Article extracted from this publication >> May 18, 1990
