PM indicates more bus links with Pak shrines

Patiala, Feb 6 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today hinted that more bus services could be introduced on the pattern of the Amritsar- Nankana Sahib to the other pilgrim places in Pakistan.

Addressing a rally at the Polo Ground here in support of Congress candidates, including Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Dr Singh said that efforts were continuing with Pakistan. The present bus service was likely to be extended and some new buses could be introduced, he said.

The religious leaders have been strongly demanding access from the holy city of Amritsar to Gurdwara Panja Sahib and Katasraj Mandir in Pakistan, at present out of bounds for common Indian pilgrims.

Speaking at the election rally, the Prime Minister said,''Every Sikh daily recites the ardas Jina Gurdhama Nu Panth to Vichhoria Giya Hai, Tina de Khule Darshan-Didar te Sewa-Sambhal Khalsa Ji Nu Bakhsho'' (Those shrines which have become out-of-reach for the Sikhs, may those become accesible to visit and serve)''.

''This prayer has partially been answered, with the commencement of the bus service between Amritsar and Nankana Sahib,'' Dr Singh said adding that a Congress government in the state would assure that efforts continued to facilitate it further.

Though the Prime Minister did not elaborate, his remarks apparently came in the wake of pressing demands for cutting down the Amritsar-Nankana Sahib bus fare and opening a visa centre of Pakistan at Amritsar, apart from access to other holy shrines in Pakistan.

UNI