Badal sees ray of hope in Sikh-Sacha Sauda controversy

Chandigarh, May 24 (UNI) Reiterating that the priority of his Government was to restore peace in Punjab, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal hinted that a solution was in sight to end the Sacha Sauda-Sikh controversy that had led to protests, violence and a 'bandh'.

''We are putting in all our efforts to restore normalcy and so is the Sarv Dharam (all religion) delegation and we are hopeful of a solution'', he said after presiding over a meeting of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MPs, MLAs and office bearers here today.

Mr Badal who seemed relaxed and confident, admitted that members of the 'Sarv Dharam' delegation were in touch with him on the telephone. He however refused to disclose the nature of discussions while appreciating the efforts of the delegation which comprises Swami Agnivesh, Jain Muni, Lokesh Parkash, Maulana Jamal Ahmed Ilyasi and Father Phillip.

The delegation had held lengthy discussions with Sacha Sauda head Baba Gurmeet Ram Raheem Singh at Sirsa on Tuesday night and had left for New Delhi yesterday. The delegation after a final word from the Sacha Sauda 'dera' is likely to discuss the issue with the Akal Takht that has demanded a public apology from Ram Raheem for imitating Guru Gobind Singh during a ceremony.

''We are trying on all fronts to restore peace'', the Chief Minister in the presence of his senior party leaders said at a media conference.

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