SGPC predicts change of guard in Punjab

Bhopal, Sep 18 (UNI) Claiming that Punjab's electorate was dejected with the Capt Amrinder Singh-led Congress regime, SGPC President Avtar Singh Makkar today said a change of guard was a certainty in the next assembly poll.

''Capt Singh is being oppressive to political opponents. Punjab is grappling with corruption, unemployment, power crisis and several other problems. The government has lost the people's confidence,'' Jathedar Makkar, on a two-day visit to the Madhya Pradesh capital, told reporters.

When asked about the Akali Dal's role in the hustings, he said its part would be crucial and the Dal would have to focus on preventing division of votes.

Responding to a question on the Akalis' rhythm with the BJP, Mr Makkar said, ''only the Dal's senior leaders can make the situation clear.'' On SGPC work, he explained that along with expanding Sikhism-related activities, attention was being paid so that every child born in the community embraced Sikhism and did not trim hair.

''I am touring the country. Prior to Bhopal, I was in Jammu and Kashmir and Kolkata. Sikhs have made a key contribution to this nation's progress. The community has carved a niche in business and other sectors,'' Mr Makkar added.

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