Portfolio list ready, no problem with BJP: Badal

Jalandhar, Mar 7: Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today categorically denied that the delay in the allotment of portfolios to his ministers was caused by a demanding alliance partner, the BJP.

''The list of porfolios to the ministers has already been submitted to the Governor,'' Mr Badal said while replying to a media query here about the speculation that internal dissent in Akali Dal as well as demands by BJP, which proved vital in catapulting the SAD-BJP alliance to power, was causing the delay.

It was common in an alliance government that such important issues take three to four days after the swearing-in ceremony, Mr Badal, who took oath on March 2, said.

A major administrative reshuffle and changes in police department in the state will take place within a week, Mr Badal said after reviewing the district administration's meeting.

''No officer will be shifted with an intention of vendetta in the state,'' the Chief Minister added.

When asked about reviewing of the projects sanctioned by the previous government, he said,''All the projects which are in the interest of state will stay but the projects in which money exchanged hands would be reviewed.'' ''We will work for the common man and most part of the budget would be dedicated for the poor masses,'' he said adding that pulses and flour would be available at the cheaper rate after categorisation of the list of the needy persons.

He also said that no illegal buses would be allowed to ply in the state and directed the administration to impound all such vehicles.

UNI

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