Badal to deal sternly with unlawful elements in Punjab

Chandigarh, May 21 (UNI) Making a passionate appeal for maintaining peace and communal harmony in Punjab, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today warned that anyone indulging in unlawful actvities during the 'bandh' tomorrow would be dealt with sternly.

''No one will be allowed to incite communal feelings and perpetuate violence, the government will maintain peace and harmony at all costs,'' Mr Badal said while addressing a media conference here.

He maintained that the Punjab Police and the Para Military Forces deployed in the state were ready to deal with any uneventuality. He also discussed the law and order situation in the state with the Chief Secretary and the state Director General of Police (DGP).

The day long 'bandh' call was given yesterday by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Joginder Singh Vidanti to protest against the anti-Sikh activities of Dera Sacha Sauda head Baba Gurmeet Ram Raheem Singh. The Jathedar took this decision after holding a meeting at the Akal Takht with the Jathedars of other Takhts and heads of various Sikh religious and social organisations.

''Anyone, irrespective of his position, found taking the law into his hands will be dealt with in a stern manner,'' he added.

The Chief Minister appealed to all political parties, particularly the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and its alliance partner the BJP, to assist the government in maintaining peace and harmony.

He said that strict vigil was being kept over the situation in the state.

Asked about sensitive pockets in the state, Mr Badal said these could be anywhere in the state. '' We will fulfill the duty of a government, to maintain peace,'' he added.

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