LUDHIANA: The unity move between the Unified Akali Dal (T) and Akali Dal (L) made further headway on Saturday with Jagdev Singh Talwandi and Barnala holding cordial talks for unification. Barnala, whose resignation from the Akali Dal (L) was rejected by the Dal Jathedars earlier last week told newsmen that he met UAD president in response to a directive by the party Jathedars to hold unity talks with other Akali factions. Refusing to divulge the details of the two hour talks or their outcome, Barnala said the cordial and there was sincere feelings on both sides for forging Panthic unity and they had agreed to meet again.
In reply to a question, Barnala said he had not contacted the sacked Akal Takht Jathedar, Jasbir Singh Rode so far. To another question he said he had not so far resumed office of president of Akali Dal (L) and the matter was still under his consideration. He said there was no question of betraying Akal Takht. Apparently referring to the outburst against him by former finance minister, Balwant Singh and his supporters who claimed that Akali unity was not possible with Barnala heading the Dal (L), he said there were disgruntled elements in every party.
Meanwhile the youth wing of the Dal (L) met at Ropar and criticized the Jathedars for rejecting the resignation of Barnala from the party president ship.
Article extracted from this publication >> January 13, 1989
