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Bajwa applauds acceptance of one rank pension, thanks Sonia Rahul

New Delhi/Chandigarh, February 17-

Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today applauded the. decision of the UPA government at the Centre to implement the ‘One Rank One Pension’ scheme and expressed his gratitude to UPA Chairperson and AICC President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and AICC Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi for the major relief given to ex-servicemen.

In a statement issued here Mr. Bajwa said that it was a. long standing demand of millions of ex-servicemen and Punjab Congress had been consistently making efforts to get the ‘one rank-one pension’ scheme approved since a large number of ex-servicemen belonged to Punjab.  He said that Finance Minister Mr. P.Chidambram was generous enough to provide Rs.500 crores in the defense budget exclusively for this purpose.

Mr. Bajwa said that he had led a deputation of ex-servicemen on Friday to meet Mr. Rahul Gandhi at Delhi where Mr. Gandhi had assured to get the long standing demand accepted.  He said that he had also strongly taken up the demand of ex-servicemen with Mr. Gandhi when he had visited Sangrur to lay the foundation stone of cancer hospital in May 2013. He said that Punjab would be a major beneficiary of the OROP rule.

He said that under the "one rank, one pension" rule, retired soldiers of the same rank and length of service will receive the same pension, regardless of when they retire. Currently, pensioners who retired before 2006 receive less pension than their counterparts, even their juniors.

Mr. Bajwa further said that previous National Democratic Alliance Government which was in office for six years had given false hopes to ex-servicemen but didn’t accept the demand despite making periodic announcements at regular intervals about the same. He said that 25 lakh retired and 14 lakh serving army men would be benefited by this decision. He said that earlier also UPA government had  made  significant improvements in pension for armed forces personnel  over and above the benefits that accrued out of implementation of the 6th Pay Commission.

PPCC president also welcomed 10 percent hike in the defense budget beside other incentives given in excise duty to manufacturing sector. Lastly Mr Bajwa said that he was proud of having taken up the just demands of those who put their lives on the line for their countrymen and successfully got them accepted. The country and the Congress are proud of India's soldiers and will do everything possible for their welfare and that of their families.

Jai Hind ! Long live our Armed Forces and our valiant soldiers!

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Fixing salaries of education volunteers falls in state govt’s domain: Bajwa

Union HRD minister clarifies in response to Badal’s letter

 Chandigarh, February 14- 

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today stated that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was misleading the people on the issue of fixation of salaries of education volunteers recruited under Education Gurantee scheme (EGS) and other center sponsored schemes.

In a statement issued here Mr. Bajwa said that fixing salaries of education volunteers was the responsibility of state governments and not of center 

 government where as Mr. Badal was trying to give an impression that center government was responsible for not enhancing honorarium being paid to EGS and ETT teachers. He said that center government had duly informed to Punjab Government, the center government’s policy on fixing salaries of contract teachers under SSA and RMS.

 He said that Mr. Kapil Sibal the then Union minister for Human Resource Development in response to a letter written by Mr. Badal on November 8, 2011 had replied that in case state government wishes to enhance the remuneration of contract teachers, appropriate decisions need to be taken in respect of all contract teachers working with the state Government and not just for those contract teachers who are provided remuneration support from centrally sponsored schemes.

 Mr. Bajwa said that the HRD minister has clearly stated that if the state government wishes to enhance remuneration for contact teachers or regularize their services relevant orders of the state government may be issued. The school education department of the state may also please be advised to place those orders before the project Approval Board for SSA and RMSA for consideration. He said that it was duty of state government to make the proposal part of Annual Work Plan and annual budget.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Mr. Badal was misguiding the contract teachers on this issue and asked Mr. Badal to enhance the salaries of teachers. He said that it was shameful that SAD-BJP government was paying Rs.2500 per month to EGS teachers. He said that even the unskilled workers were paid Rs.9000 per month.

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Punjab Congress flays SAD-BJP Govt. for not paying minimum wages to unemployed EGS teachers

Says, state government has powers to exempt EGS teachers from ETT

Bathinda, February 11-

 Punjab Congress today flayed the decision of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to pay meager amount of Rs. 2500 per month to education volunteers under EGS scheme and said that it glaring example of exploitation of unemployed educated youth.

 In a joint statement issued here PPCC leaders S. Gurpreet Singh Kangar Vice President PPCC, S. Harminder Singh Jassi General Secretary PPCC, Sh. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring MLA & General Secretary PPCC said that Chief Minister had announced to pay Rs.2500 per month to EGS teachers and Rs.5000 to those having passed ETT or B.Ed. They said that it was cruel joke with the whole teaching community. They said that in the first place SAD-BJP government had created circumstances for agitation by EGS teachers by discontinuing center sponsored schemes and then revived the same schemes to take political mileage out of agony of teachers. Had Chief Minister taken this decision in time, the life of girl child Rooth daughter of striking teacher could have been saved.

 The Congress leaders said that SAD-BJP government was not even paying minimum wages fixed for unskilled workers to the teachers working under various center sponsored schemes. They said that minimum wages for the unskilled worker in Punjab were Rs.9000 per month. They said that center government had not barred the state government from paying higher salaries. The state government is free to contribute its share in the honorarium to be paid to EGS teachers. They demanded to raise the monthly emoluments of EGS teachers to minimum Rs.10,000 per month.  They said that state government had the powers to exempt EGS teachers from ETT and B.Ed.

 The Congress leaders also demanded to abolish contractual system in recruitment of teachers to cut down the commission being paid to middlemen.

 PPCC leaders said that the more than 60,000 posts of teachers were lying vacant in Punjab schools. They demanded to fill the regular posts of teachers in schools so that poor people could get at least basic education.  They said that Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had promised to create 10 lakh jobs in five years but only 35000 persons were given jobs. They said that the number of unemployed youth has risen to over 60 lakhs which is major cause of frustration among youth.

 The Congress leaders said that Congress party would keep close watch on the implementation of agreement with the EGS teachers and will continue to support their demand for higher wages and regular jobs. They said that SAD-BJP government had failed to implement various schemes started by UPA government for the welfare of people of Punjab. They said that earlier book scam involving misappropriation of  Sarv Sikhya Abhiyan funds had ricked the education department but the culprits were allowed to go scot free.

 

Punjab Congress flays SAD-BJP Govt. for not paying minimum wages to unemployed EGS teachers

Says, state government has powers to exempt EGS teachers from ETT

Bathinda, February 11-

 Punjab Congress today flayed the decision of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to pay meager amount of Rs. 2500 per month to education volunteers under EGS scheme and said that it glaring example of exploitation of unemployed educated youth.

 In a joint statement issued here PPCC leaders S. Gurpreet Singh Kangar Vice President PPCC, S. Harminder Singh Jassi General Secretary PPCC, Sh. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring MLA & General Secretary PPCC said that Chief Minister had announced to pay Rs.2500 per month to EGS teachers and Rs.5000 to those having passed ETT or B.Ed. They said that it was cruel joke with the whole teaching community. They said that in the first place SAD-BJP government had created circumstances for agitation by EGS teachers by discontinuing center sponsored schemes and then revived the same schemes to take political mileage out of agony of teachers. Had Chief Minister taken this decision in time, the life of girl child Rooth daughter of striking teacher could have been saved.

 The Congress leaders said that SAD-BJP government was not even paying minimum wages fixed for unskilled workers to the teachers working under various center sponsored schemes. They said that minimum wages for the unskilled worker in Punjab were Rs.9000 per month. They said that center government had not barred the state government from paying higher salaries. The state government is free to contribute its share in the honorarium to be paid to EGS teachers. They demanded to raise the monthly emoluments of EGS teachers to minimum Rs.10,000 per month.  They said that state government had the powers to exempt EGS teachers from ETT and B.Ed.

 The Congress leaders also demanded to abolish contractual system in recruitment of teachers to cut down the commission being paid to middlemen.

 PPCC leaders said that the more than 60,000 posts of teachers were lying vacant in Punjab schools. They demanded to fill the regular posts of teachers in schools so that poor people could get at least basic education.  They said that Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had promised to create 10 lakh jobs in five years but only 35000 persons were given jobs. They said that the number of unemployed youth has risen to over 60 lakhs which is major cause of frustration among youth.

 The Congress leaders said that Congress party would keep close watch on the implementation of agreement with the EGS teachers and will continue to support their demand for higher wages and regular jobs. They said that SAD-BJP government had failed to implement various schemes started by UPA government for the welfare of people of Punjab. They said that earlier book scam involving misappropriation of  Sarv Sikhya Abhiyan funds had ricked the education department but the culprits were allowed to go scot free.

 

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SAD-BJP govt spending over Rs.1.25 crore every month on "false propaganda" of development: Bajwa

 Says, Crores went down the drain in organizing Investment summit, achievement nil

 Chandigarh, February 11-

Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today warned the SAD-BJP government against wasteful expenditure of public funds in crores on its "false propaganda" in different mediums whereas the government is not able to pay the rightful claims of Government employees and other beneficiaries of social welfare schemes.

In a statement issued here Mr. Bajwa said that as per the information obtained under RTI Act by Dr. Jasdeepak Singh convener of RTI cell of PPCC, the SAD-BJP government was spending whopping amount of about Rs. 1.25 crores per month on advertisements in the print media alone. The department of Information and Public Relations however has withheld the information regarding advertisements issued to electronic, social media and outdoor publicity.

Mr. Bajwa said that during first ten months of the year 2013-14 from April 1 to February 3, the Punjab Government had issued advertisements worth Rs.12.99 crores to various newspapers. Most of these advertisements were related to false propaganda regarding the development projects which didn't go beyond foundation stones. He said that it was shameful that Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister were indulging in self-promotion at the expense of the people of Punjab who are bearing this burden through heavy taxes levied by this government.

Mr. Bajwa said that teachers were not getting salaries, arrears of the  6th pay commission till date, retiring employees are not being paid their dues and pensions for widows, handicapped and senior citizens are not being released. Hundreds of beneficiaries of shagun scheme are waiting for their cheques. He said that instead of clearing the pending bills, the Chief Minister and his son were fueling their 'gissip machine' with public money.

Mr. Bajwa said that Mr. Sukhbir Badal had spent over Rs. 4 crores on organising the Progressive Punjab Investment Summit in Mohali and it didn't include the expenditure of publicity in print and electronic media and outdoor publicity which could be more than the double of above figure. He said that not even a single penny was invested in Punjab by the participants in Investment Summit though tall claims were made by Mr. Sukhbir Badal. The state government had refused to part with the information sought under RTI on the MoUs signed with investors.

He said that SAD-BJP government is now going to hold Agriculture Summit. He questioned the logic of holding Agriculture summit while this government has not yet formulated any agriculture policy for the state and farmers were committing suicide. There has been steep decline in the agriculture growth for last seven years of SAD-BJP rule.

He said that as per NSSO survey, the peasantry of Punjab is heavily burdened under debt next to Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The rural debt in Punjab is estimated to be more then Rs. 35000 Crore which has resulted in farmer suicides.

He added that as per the latest survey conducted by The Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana, about 5000 farmers and farm labourers have committed suicides during the last 10 years. The high debt burden on small and marginal farmers has destroyed many homes resulting in selling and mortgaging their land to make ends meet.

Mr. Bajwa asked Mr. Badal to see the ground realities and not to befool the people. He said that SAD-BJP government has failed on every front i.e. law and order, economy, agriculture, industrial sector, development and social sector. He sought an explanation from the Chief Minister on these issues on which they have fooled the people of Punjab.

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Corruption, crime and drugs become trade mark of SAD-BJP government: Bajwa

Youth Akali Dal becomes den of criminals

Extends full support to striking EGS teachers

 

Ferozepur, February 8-

Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today said that SAD-BJP government was leading Punjab towards anarchy and corruption, crime and drugs have become trade marks of this government.

Mr. Bajwa was addressing district level dharna here organized by local MLA Parminder Singh Pinki in support of PPCC demand for CBI probe into drug racket operating in Punjab. Mr. Bajwa said that Congress fully supported the agitation by teachers working under Education Guarantee Scheme at Bathinda. While expressing shock at the death of 14 month old Eknoor daughter of a teacher, he has directed Bathinda DCC to extend full moral and material support to the striking teachers.

Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party was playing role of whistleblower and doing its duty of sincere opposition by raking the issues related to welfare of Punjab. He said that SAD-BJP government had become synonymous with corruption and crime. He said that people of Punjab had given mandate to SAD-BJP alliance to take Punjab forward but Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and his family members have pushed the state to brink of bankruptcy.

PPCC President said that drug menace in Punjab was the only achievement of SAD-BJP government given to people. He said that Chief Minister was using government machinery and all other resources to suppress the probe into drug racket. He said that people of Punjab had given their trust to Mr. Badal and gave him rare distinction of becoming Chief Minister for five terms. It was expected that he would be thankful to people but he has betrayed the faith of people by shielding accused ministers involved in drug trade and corruption cases.

Mr. Bajwa said that Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister and close relative of Mr. Badal was not only involved in drug trade he was also providing safe sanctuary to the criminals. The Youth Akali Dal has become den of criminals, he added. The recent case of killing of 17 year old boy in Khanna by Yadavinder Singh Yadu district rural president of Youth Akali Dal Ludhiana is testimony of political support extended to criminals. He demanded immediate arrest of Yadu and his accomplices.

He said that in all the major crime incidents so far occurred in Punjab, supporters of Mr. Majithia were involved. He cited the example of Amritsar where Ranjit Singh Rana a Youth Akali Dal leader had killed ASI Ravinderpal Singh when he tried to protect the modesty of his daughter. Mr. Bajwa said that name of Majithia figured in promoting sand and liquor mafia. His supporters had beaten up Tehsildar Gurjinder Singh Benipal and SP rank officer S.S.Mand at Ludhiana. The youth Akali Dal leader of Patiala was absconding after an attempt to murder case registered against him. Maninder Singh Bittu Aulakh and Jagjit Singh Chahal, two close confidents of Mr. Majithia were arrested in drug trafficking case who were manufacturing drugs and supplying in red beacon vehicles to drug lord Jagdish Bhola.

Others who were present on the occasion included Hans Raj Josan General Secretary PPCC, Inderjit singh Zira Former Minister, Gurnaib Singh Brar Former Minister  Chamkaur Singh President DCC (Ferozepur), Koshal Kumar President DCC (Fazilka),  Anumeet Singh Sodhi, , Vijay Kalra, Satkar kaur, Kulbir Zira, Anoop singh, Usha chopra, Ravi Dutt Chawla, Balwinder Naul, Ved Parkash, Raj Bakshi Josan, Rajinder Chabbra, Gurmeet Shira, Ashok Kathuria, Mavinder Madan, Puran Chand Mujaidia, Harinder Dhindsa, Rajinder sharma.

 

PPCC to sharpen agitation for CBI probe into drug scam from Feb 3: Bajwa

Announced to hold dharnas at district headquarters, beginning from Ropar

Chandigarh, January 30-

 Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) President Partap Singh Bajwa said that Congress has decided to intensify agitation to press for demand of CBI probe into drug racket and decided to start district level dharnas on February 3, beginning from Ropar and culminating at Barnala on February 28 in the first phase.

 Addressing Congress workers sitting on hunger strike here at Congress Bhawan Mr. Bajwa said that relay hunger strike started on January 19 had received tremendous response from all constituencies. The DCC and BCC presidents at a meeting last week resolved to take the agitation against drug menace to grass root level. He said that after consultation with the senior party leaders and to respect the sentiments of party workers, it has been decided to hold dharnas and silent march at all district headquarters.

 Mr. Bajwa said that SAD-BJP government was arrogant and irresponsible and showing no accountability towards people of state. He said that Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was equally responsible as are Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia for shielding the drug mafia. He warned the people of Punjab that if strong offensive was not launched against drug mafia, Punjab would face its consequences for ages. He said that Congress would spread the agitation to grass root level and also appealed to people to support fight against drug menace.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party was of firm opinion that there is no other alternative than CBI inquiry into the drug racket which has its roots spread to other states and countries. He said that PPCC had given call for ‘Chakka Jam’ on January 14 to stir the consequence of SAD-BJP government and send a message across that people of Punjab would not tolerate this any more. He said that the main accused in the drug racket Jagdish Bhola had named revenue Minister Mr. Biakram Majithia in front of media.  When police can arrest 50 odd drug traffickers named by Bhola, why different yard stick is applied to Mr. Majithia. He said that if Mr. Majithia was innocent why he is scared of an independent probe.

 Mr. Bajwa made it clear that Congress would not allow Chief Minister to get away with clean chit to Mr. Majithia even before completion of probe. He said that Congress party had earlier exposed book scam in education department and embezzlement of rural development funds in Panchayat department. In both the cases Mr. Badal issued clean chit to education minister Mr. Sikandar Singh Maluka and animal husbandry minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike. He is trying to do the same in this case also.

 Meanwhile on the concluding day of Chain Hunger Strike in the PPCC Office Mr. Bajwa thanked the Congress workers of Sunam led by Mr. Aman Arora and from Dirba led by Mr. Ajaib Singh Rataul who observed day long fast here on the last day of relay hunger strike. Mrs. Malti Thapar President Punjab Mahila Congress joined the fast and asked the party workers to get ready for major offensive against SAD-BJP government being started at district level.

 Others who joined hunger strike included from Sunam Sanjay Goyal, Mulkha Singh, Manpreet Waraich, Ghanshyam Kansal, Jung Singh, Darshan Kansal, Rajinder Singh, Avtar Singh, Subedar Darshan Singh, Manish Soni, Jagjit Singh Dardi, Manpreet Bansal, Chand Singh, Labh Singh, Narinder Singh, Najain Singh, Manji Singh, Pintu Singh, Jaswant Singh and from Dirba Jaga Ram, Hakam Singh, Surinder Kumar, Avtar Singh, Baj Singh, Jagir Singh, Dr. Baljit Bawa, Satnam Singh, Chand Singh, Balweer Singh and from Punjab Mahila Congress Krishna Mittu, Seema Bhardwaj, Pinky Bhatia, Kusum Sharma, Taranjit Kaur, Rajinder Kaur, Kanta Devi, Mandeep Kaur, Tripta Thakur, Gurdarshan Kaur, Amanjeet Bhattal, Balwinder Kaur, Alwinder Kaur, Ranjeet Romana, Sarjiwan Sharma, Rajeshwari, Neela, Poonam.

 

Punjab Congress observes martyrdom day of Mahatma Gandhi

 Chandigarh, January 30-

 Punjab Pradesh Congress (PPCC) today observed martyrdom day of Mahatma Gandhi and took the pledge to follow the path shown by Bapu Gandhi.

 The Congress workers in large number led by PPCC President Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa observed two minute silence and Mr. Bajwa administered the oath in open ground. The party workers pledged that they will follow the path of truth, non-violence, unity and harmony to strength the nation.

 Others who joined the ceremony included S. Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa, General Secretary PPCC, Smt. Lakhwinder Kaur Garcha General Secretary PPCC, S. Jasbir Singh Gill (Dimpa) General Secretary PPCC, Dr. Malti Thapar, President Punjab Mahila Congress, S. Gurpartap Singh Mann Secretary PPCC, Sh. Aman Arora Member AICC, S. Ajaib Singh Ratual, Smt. Krishna Mittu, Ex-Vice President PPCC, Sh. R. R. Bhardwaj Chairman RTI Cell PPCC, Sh. Lakha Ram Davesar Chairman Bazigar Cell PPCC

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Punjab Congress demands to make public list of tainted police officers under EC scanner

Hunger strike by Congress workers enter 11th day

 Chandigarh, January 29-

 Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) Vice Presidents Mr. Surinder Pal Singh Sibia and Mr. Kewal Singh Dhillon today demanded to make public the list of 90 tainted police officers against whom the Election Commission of India has given adverse remarks for biased performance in election work.

 Mr. Sibia and Mr. Dhillon who have been sitting on hunger strike here at Congress Bhawan on the 11th day of chain fast said that media reports about the 'tainted' police officers were an indicting that SAD-BJP government was shielding the officers who were found involved in rigging during previous assembly and Lok Sabha elections.

 The Congress leaders demanded to keep all such police officers away from poll duty and make their names public so that they are no given any election related work. The Congress leaders welcomed the move by Election Commission of India to seek report on 'tainted' police officers from Punjab Government.

 Mr. Sibia and Mr. Dhillon further said that Punjab Congress would intensify the agitation against drug menace. They said that Congress party had started its agitation with the motive of eradicating evil of drugs from Punjab. They said that PPCC would take the issue to village level and force the SAD-BJP government to order CBI probe into drug racket. They said that earlier too the SAD-BJP government was forced to reduce property tax rates with public pressure built by Congress.

 They said that people of Punjab would not forgive SAD and BJP alliance for ruining youth of Punjab. They said that every third youth was using drugs and even school children were falling prey to drugs. They said that drug racket was being run under political protection. The name of revenue minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia had figured in the scandal. The Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal had issued him clean chit without any inquiry.

 The other leaders who joined the hunger strike included from Sangrur Jasdeep Chohan, Sandeep Bansal, Rockey Bansal, Binder Bansal, Gurtej Grewal, Kanta Kathala, Harpal Singh, Jagwinder Kala, Sanjay Gaba, Pyara Lal Khan, Nath Lal Dhingra and from Barnala Sukhjit Kaur Sukhi MC, Krishan Kumar, Jagseer Singh Sekha, Amarjit Singh Kaka, Satpal MC, Chand Singh Mana Pind, Gurdarshan Brar Sarpanch, Labu Singh, SUkhwinder Singh, Dimpla Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Bhupinder Singh, Gurjeet Singh Brar.

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 DCC, BCC presidents prevailed upon Bajwa to take agitation against drugs to grass root level

Hunger strike for CBI probe into drug racket entered 10th day

Chandigarh, January 28-

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today accepted the suggestions by Presidents of District and Block Congress Committees to take the agitation against drug menace in Punjab to grass root level and mobilize people at District level to join the movement launched by Congress party. He added that he will discuss the matter with all senior leaders of the party in this regard and final decision will be taken in a day or so.

 Mr. Bajwa was interacting with the DCC and BCC presidents here at Congress Bhawan and apprised them about the agitation launched by PPCC for probe by CBI into the synthetic drug racket in which senior ministers of SAD-BJP government were involved. He said that the name of Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia had figured prominently. Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was not ordering investigation by CBI due to fear of involvement of more members of his cabinet and family.

 The DCC and BCC presidents prevailed upon PPCC President to spread the agitation to micro level because people in the villages were most affected from drugs. They informed the PPCC President that youth in villages was becoming addicted due to easy availability of drugs. They said that drug racket was being run under political and police protection. They also endorsed the claim of PPCC President that many layers of drug racket were still operating in Punjab.

 Mr. Bajwa said that he had received input that many more drug rackets were still operating in Punjab under political protection. He said that situation on country side was alarming. He said that SAD leaders were actively involved in drug trafficking and BJP was giving tactic support by turning blind eye to the whole drug scandal. He said that rise in crime in Punjab was direct fallout of nexus between drug smugglers, politicians and police. He said that Chief Minister had become prisoner of whims and fancies of his son Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal.

 PPCC President asked the district and block presidents to gear up for Lok Sabha elections in which issue of drugs would be on the top agenda. He asked them to hold monthly meetings of DCC and BCC and collect feedback on local issues.He asked BCC presidents to form 11 member booth level committees and submit lists before February 15, 2014.

 Mr. Bajwa said that PPCC would do full use of social media and internet technology to reach out to people of Punjab on vital issues like drugs, corruption, unemployment, sand and liquor mafia, heavy burden of taxes on people beside highlighting achievements of UPA government at center. He said that UPA government under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Sonia Gandhi had empowered the people of country in many ways. He said that AICC vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had worked together to implement the Congress party policies and programmes.

 Mr. Sukhjinder Raj Singh Lalli Majithia General Secretary PPCC was also present among other senior leaders of party.

 Meanwhile the hunger strike by Congress workers for demand of CBI probe into drug racket entered 10th day today. The leaders from Batala and Bhoa assembly constituencies participated in the hunger strike. Those sat on fast included Mr. Ashwani Sekhri Secretary AICC, and Rumal Chand former MLA. They were joined by from Batala Jaspal Singh Tatla, Baldev Singh Pawar, Amrik Singh, Jarnail Singh, Manjit Singh, Laddi Tatla, Lakhwant Singh Tatla, Boota Singh Bajwa, Harminder Singh Batala, Sukhpal Lali and from Bhoa Joginder Pal, Vijay Kataruchak, Dr. Pankaj Rai, Satinder Pinka, Joginder Pal, Karu Dass, Satish Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Raj Kumar and Yuvraj Singh.

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PPCC election committee authorized AICC President to decide Lok Sabha candidates

Shakeel Ahmed seeks suggestions from members by January 29

 Chandigarh, January 27-

 The meeting of State Election Committee of PPCC today held its first meeting here today passing a unanimous resolution, authorizing the AICC President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi to select candidates for 13 Lok Sabha seats.

 Mr. Shakeel Ahmed General Secretary AICC and in charge of Punjab who presided over the meeting has asked the members of the committee to submit their suggestions on candidates by the evening of January 29. He said that the meeting of screening committee of AICC led by Mr. P.C.Chako will be on January 30 to further process the names of candidates.

 Mr. Ahmad said that Congress will win all the 13 parliamentary seats in Punjab. Later talking to media Mr. Ahmed said that AICC and PPCC has same stand on CBI inquiry into the drug racket in Punjab. He said that only CBI inquiry could expose the scandal which is spread in several states and countries.

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) welcomed the members of committee. He said that in all 124 candidates had filed applications for 13 seats.

 Those present in the meeting included Capt. Amarinder Singh, Permanent Invitee CWC, Sh. Mohinder Singh Kay Pee, Special Invitee CWC, Sh. K. L. Sharma Secretary AICC, Sh. Kuljit Singh Nagra Secretary AICC, Sh. Manish Tewari Union MOS Info. & Broadcasting, Smt. Santosh Chaudhary Union MOS Health & Family Welfare, Sh. Sunil Kumar Jakhar CLP Leader, Smt. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal Former Chief Minister Pb., S. Shamsher Singh Dullo Former President PPCC, Sh. H. S. Hanspal Former President PPCC, S. Laal Singh MLA & Former Working President, PPCC , Sh. Sukhdev Singh Libra MP, S. Ravneet Singh Bittu MP, Sh. Vijay Inder Singla MP, Sh. Brahm Mohindra Vice President PPCC, Prof. Darbari Lal Ex-Dy. Speaker, Ch. Jagjit Singh Ex-Minister, Smt. Razia Sultana Vice President PPCC, S. Sardul Singh Vice President PPCC Ch. Vikram Singh President Punjab Youth Congress, Dr. Malti Thapar President Pb. Mahila Congress, Mrs. Daaman Bajwa President NSUI, Sh. Shalamat Masih Executive Member, PPCC

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Rahul not linked to 1984, Modi refused to apologize for Godhra riots: Bajwa

Chandigarh, January 29-

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa today questioned wisdom of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and his son Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal in seeking apology from Mr. Rahul Gandhi for 1984 Delhi riots though latter is not even remotely linked with the unfortunate incidents of 1984.

Mr. Bajwa in a statement said that everyone in this country considers the 1984 riots an unfortunate and tragic event and everyone condemns it strongly and unequivocally. In this context it must be remembered that both the Congress President Smt Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minster Dr Manmohan Singh have apologized to the Sikh community for the riots.

He stated that no one in the NDA has voiced any regret for the horrific 2002 riots in Gujarat which happened on the watch of their prime ministerial candidate, Mr Narendra Modi. Modi has categorically refused to apologize for the Godra riots till date.

He added, "Therefore it is surprising that the Badals, father and son and their underlings should seek to attack Mr. Rahul Gandhi personally for the most unfortunate happenings of 1984.He was after all a teenager at the time and cannot be held responsible in any way for this tragic event. Moreover Mr. Rahul Gandhi visited Shri Harmandir Sahib to pay obeisance. In contrast Mr Modi had refused to wear Muslims Skull Cap in a function which shows his clear hatred for the minorities".

Mr. Bajwa further said, what are the Badals and the other Akalis seeking to prove by raking up these most tragic events and therefore reopening old wounds for their political ambitions.They could very well be asked to answer for their own sins of omission and commission which added to the trauma of those times and the unfortunate people of Punjab and India who lived through them. Mr. Parkash Singh Badal may very well be asked to explain his silence on acts of terrorism, his attending death ceremonies of terrorists killed in encounters with the security forces and those responsible in the  killing of minority community members in Punjab as well  the praises  heaped by him on militant leaders and causing enmity between communities.

 

Bajwa opposed tax cut on tobacco, opposes Akali Dal for promoting cigarettes in Punjab

-Seeks appointment with PM for presenting Punjab’s case for special industrial package

-PPCC hunger strike for CBI probe into drug racket continued on fourth day

Chandigarh, January 22-

Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today flayed the SAD-BJP government for over 60 percent cut in VAT rates on tobacco products in Punjab despite the fact that tobacco is one of the major causes of cancer.

While talking to media here on the sidelines of hunger strike by PPCC leaders, Mr. Bajwa said that it was most shameful and senseless decision of state government led by Mr. Parkash Singh Badal who represents a party with so called Panthic credentials. He said that after the involvement of Akali Dal leaders in drug racket, it was another dubious achievement of SAD.

Mr. Bajwa said that decision was taken under pressure from tobacco companies due to declining sales of cigarettes in the state. He said that it SAD-BJP government had no concern for the health of people of Punjab and they can go to any extent to increase the revenue. He said that ridiculous justification was being made by state government that the money earned from sale of cigarettes would be spent on cancer patients. He said that smoking of cigarettes at public places was banned by Supreme Court and SAD-BJP government had also failed to implement that order. He said that free sale of tobacco products, drugs and liquor on road sides had become land mark of SAD-BJP government.

Mr. Bajwa said that he was seeking an appointment from Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to present case of Punjab for special industrial package. He said that he would meet the PM along with CLP leader Mr. Sunil Jakhar, Union Ministers and Congress MPs from state. He said that decision of Union Government to give special package was against the assurance given to him. He said that he had requested the PM to given special package to Punjab, if same is extended to neighboring hilly States. He said that he had also requested, if such package would not be possible for Punjab then border districts of Punjab must be given industrial package. He said that if tax concessions are given to industry in border districts, the industry would not shift to Himachal Pradesh.

Meanwhile, Chaudhary Jagjit Singh who along with Congress MLA’s Charanjit Kaur Bajwa from Quadian and Karan Kaur Brar from Muktsar observed day long hunger strike said that Congress party would continue its stir against drug menace in Punjab even if CBI inquiry in ordered. He said that synthetic drug racket of Rs.6000 crores was only tip of the iceberg. He demanded to probe the involvement of revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia in drug racket. He said that no crime could happen without the protection from police and political bosses of gangsters. He said that People in Punjab were living under constant threat of organized gangs. He said that drugs and crime go side by side. He also said that Congress party was united and stood behind Mr. Bajwa like a rock.

The party MLA’s Mrs. Charanjit Kaur Bajwa and Karan Kaur Brar appealed to women to raise voice against drug menace in villages and cities. He said that women power could eradicate evils from society. They said that if drug trafficking was not checked, the next generation of Punjab had no future. They blamed SAD-BJP government for running drug cartel in state. They also led the candle light march in  sector 17 here.

Others who observed hunger strike included Others who observed hunger strike included from Qadian S. Baldish Singh Toor, S. Barinder Singh Chhotepur, S. Sukhdev Singh Happy, Sh. Kartik Waders, S. kulwant Singh Bhani Kadar, S. Sukhwinder Pal Singh, Sh. Mohinder Pal Qadian. S. Surjit Singh Tugalwal, S. Surnam Singh Passnawal, S. Davinder Singh Salapur, Sh. Jagir Singh Faulachack and from Muktsar S. Sharanjit Singh, S. Harnam Singh, S. Gaganjit Singh, S. Gurjit Singh Badhai, Sh. Vishal Bansal, S. Dilbag Singh, S. Gurpreet Singh, S. Balwinder Singh, S. Gurpinder Singh, S. Jagdev Singh, S Bohar Singh.

 

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Chand Singh Chopra appointed Chairman of Flagship programme committee of PPCC

 Chandigarh, January 22-

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today appointed former MLA and senior Congress leader Mr. Chand Singh Chopra as Chairman of Flagship Programmes Monitoring Committee of PPCC. He said that Committee would look into the spending of funds sent by center government to Punjab Government under various flagship programmes like MANREGA, Rural Health Mission and Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan etc.

 Mr. Chopra has been three time MLA and worked at grass root level to serve the people. Mr. Chopra's services would be utilized by Congress for various fields

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S. Partap Singh Bajwa, MP & President PPCC also participated and addressed the ongoing Chain Hunger Strike today (21.01.2014

Chain Hunger Strike by Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee 4th day today (22.01.2014) Assembly Constituency Qadian (Charanjit Kaur Bajwa, MLA) and Muktsar (Karan Kaur Brar, MLA) along with Congress Workers will sit on day long Hunger Strike. Ch. Jagjit Singh Ex-Minister will lead the Hunger Strike today. Press Briefing will be at 1.00 p.m.

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Punjab Congress to take up issue of special industrial package for state with PM: Bajwa

Says Congress will intervene during hearing of petition for CBI probe in High Court on January 29

-PPCC Hunger strike enter third day

 Chandigarh, January 21- Even as the hunger strike started by Punjab Congress to press for demand of CBI probe into drug racket entered third day today, Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today said that he had full faith in the judiciary.

 Addressing media persons here he said that his counsel would intervene to put up evidence and arguments in the Honb'le Punjab and Haryana High Court during hearing of petition CWP 20359 on January 29 for which Honb'le High Court has granted liberty.

 Mr. Bajwa reiterated his demand for special industrial package to Punjab being a border state. He said that Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Industry minister had assured him that package would not be given to hilly states after expiry of sunset clause. He said that he would again meet the Prime Minister along with Punjab Ministers in the center and party MPs to give special package to Punjab. If it would not be possible, the center shall give similar package to six border districts of Punjab so that industry had an option to relocate in border belt where cheap land, labour and water is available.

 Mr. Bajwa said that when in 2003 center government had granted special package to three hilly states, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayi was the Prime Minister and Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa of SAD was minister for Chemical and Fertilizers. He said that Mr. Dhindsa had not given any dissenting note against the decision. Even Mr. Sukhbir Badal was minister of state for industry he had also not objected to it.

 He said that SAD-BJP must sit on dharna in front of BJP office at Delhi to protest against special package given to hilly states. He said that SAD-BJP had no right to hold dharna in front of Governor's House on this issue.

 Mr. Bajwa condemned the hooliganism by miscreants belonging to Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP outside the residence of Mr. Manish Tiwari Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting. He said that window panes of his house were broken which shows criminal character of ruling party.

 Mr. Bajwa later addressing party workers sitting on hunger strike said that Congress had no political ambition behind launching an offensive against drugs. He said that the youth falling victim to drug menace belonged to every section of society irrespective of party affiliation.

 Mr. Sadhu Singh Dharamsot Vice President PPCC, Mr. Harminder Singh Gill, Mr. Anoop Bhullar and Mr. Sukhpal Bhullar DCC President sat on hunger strike along with party workers from assembly constituencies of Patti and Khemkaran constituencies. Others who observed hunger strike included from Patti S. Sukhwinder Singh Sidhu, Member SGPC, S. Amrik Singh, Distt. President Kisan Cell Tarn Taran,S. Nirvel Singh Pannu, Distt. President Grievances Cell Tarn Taran, Master Hardeep Singh Patti, S. Sukhbir Singh Shaheed, S. Navreet Singh Jhalewal, Ex-President Youth Congress Tarn Taran, S. Seva Singh Uboke Secretary Block Congress Committee, S. Satnam Singh Sekhon, S. Sardul Singh Satran,S. Narinder Singh Chulnevar, President Youth Congress Patti Constituency and from Khemkaran, Sh. Raj Singh, Sh. Pawan Bedi, Sh. Shvinder Singh, Sh. Nirmal Singh, Sh. Major Singh, Sh. Balbir Singh, Sh. Partap Singh, Sh. Prem Singh and Sh. Balwinder Singh.

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S. Partap Singh Bajwa, MP & President PPCC also participated and addressed the ongoing Chain Hunger Strike today (21.01.2014)

Chain Hunger Strike by Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee 3rd day today (27.01.2014) Assembly Constituency Patti (Harminder Singh Gill) and Khemkaran (Sukhpal Singh Bhullar) along with Congress Workers will sit on day long Hunger Strike. S .Charanjit Singh Channi, Vice President PPCC and S. Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Vice President PPCC will lead the Hunger Strike today. 

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Chain Hunger Strike by Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee 3rd day today (27.01.2014) Assembly Constituency Patti (Harminder Singh Gill) and Khemkaran (Sukhpal Singh Bhullar) along with Congress Workers will sit on day long Hunger Strike. S .Charanjit Singh Channi, Vice President PPCC and S. Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Vice President PPCC will lead the Hunger Strike today. Press Briefing will be at 1.00 p.m.

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PPCC hunger strike for CBI inquiry into drug racket enters second day

-Dullo questions silence of BJP and asks them to join agitation against drugs

 Chandigarh, January 20- The hunger strike by Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) in support of their demand for CBI inquiry into the multi-crore drug racket today entered in second day.

 The Congress workers from Majitha and Ajnala constituencies led by PPCC General Secretaries Mr. Sukhjinder Raj Singh Lalli Majithia and Mr. Harpratap Singh Ajnala observed day long hunger strike at Congress Bhawan here alongwith S. Shamsher Singh Dullo Former President, PPCC. On this occasion Sh. Ashwani Sekhri Co-ordinator for drug agitation and S. Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa General Secretary PPCC were also present.

 Mr. Shamsher Singh Dullo former President PPCC while addressing the party workers said that drug menace had ruined the Punjab and involvement of senior ministers and officers in the racket was serious issue. He said that only CBI inquiry into the whole racket could expose the influential politicians who are patronizing the drug mafia.

 Mr. Dullo questioned the silence of BJP, ruling partner of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in Punjab. He said that BJP was not showing any concern with the plight of people. He asked the BJP leaders to come forward and join the agitation by Congress party. He said that BJP had surrendered before the SAD for petty gains.

 Mr. Dullo said that PPCC President Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa deserved appreciation for leading the party from front and taking up the issues related with public welfare. He said that neither SAD nor BJP had any concern about the reports that 70 percent of Punjab youth including girls have been using drugs in some form. He said that drug trade couldn't flourish without the patronization of Police and Politicians. He said that people of Punjab had given mandate to SAD-BJP for better future of Punjab but these parties are playing mischief with the people.

 Mr. Dullo said that the agitation against drugs launched by Mr. Bajwa had the backing of AICC Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi and General Secretary in charge of Punjab Mr. Shakeel Ahmad. He said that Congress was united under the command of Mr. Bajwa. He also thanked Mr. Bajwa for giving representation to all sections of society in the newly constituted PPCC Executive Committee.

 Mr. Ashwani Sekhri Secretary AICC who is also coordinator for the agitation against drugs said that it was duty of every citizen of Punjab to raise voice against drug menace. He said that dharnas held by SAD leaders against holding CBI probe against Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia was another attempt to give political shelter to the drug traffickers.

 Mr. Fateh Bajwa said that PPCC would further intensify the agitation if Chief Minister failed to order CBI inquiry into drug racket. He said hat family members of Mr. Parkash Singh Badal were involved in the drug trade and this is the why he is scared of ordering CBI inquiry.

 Mr. Lalli Majithia and Mr. Harpratap Singh Ajnala while addressing said that Mr. Majithia was named by drug smuggler Jagdish Bhola but his involvement in the racket was exposed much earlier when Maninder Singh Bittu Aulakh and Jagjit Singh Chahal two close confidents of Mr. Majithia were arrested. They said that Mr. Majithia had provided security and red beacon cars to these accused to facilitate supply of drugs to Jagdish Bhola.

In the evening all the leaders & workers held a candle march at Sector – 17 Plaza Chandigarh.

 Others who sat on hunger strike from Majitha Constituency are S. Balwinder Singh Mardi, President Block Majitha – I, S. Balbir Singh Kotli, President Block Majitha – II, Bau Ramesh Gopalpura, S. Jatinder Singh Majitha, S. Kuldeep Singh Chiwenda, S. Jagdish Singh Goga, Sh. Raju Jalalpur, Sh. Raman Sharma Majitha, Sh. Surjan Singh Nagkhurd, Sh. Jasmitar Singh, Sh. Sukhwinder Singh Dhillon, Bau Vijay,  Sh. Nishan Singh Bhangali, Sh. Amarjit Singh Bhangali, Sh. Gurnam Singh Kuraliya, Sh. Aparmandip Singh Pappu, Sh. Parminder Singh Palli and from Ajnala Constituency are S. Harpal Singh Khanuwal President BCC Ajnala – I, Sh. Rajvir Singh Madhusingh President BCC Ajnala – II, S. Harbir Singh babloo Sindhi  Vice President DCC Amritsar, S. Gurpinder Singh Maal, President DYC, Harwinderpal Singh Abusahib Block Samiti, Member, Tejinder Singh Kuralia, Sulkhan Singh Chamyari, Gurbachan Singh Focal point, Gurbachan Singh, Balwant Singh Pandoori

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Bajwa begins hunger strike for demand of CBI inquiry into drug racket, others to follow

Says, Congress to intensify agitation for arrest of Majithia

 Chandigarh, January 19-

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) along with first batch of party leaders today started hunger strike here at Congress Bhwan to press for the demand of CBI inquiry into multi-crore drug racket and immediate dismissal and arrest of revenue minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia.

 While addressing the party workers, Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party would intensify the agitation if CBI probe was not ordered. He said that Congress was using peaceful and democratic methods to shake the conscience of Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal who is shielding Mr. Majithia due to close family relations. He said that he had earlier on January 8 written a letter to the Chief Minister to take action against Mr. Majithia and two more ministers suspected to be involved in the drug trafficking.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Jagdish Bhola main accused in drug racket has made serious allegation against Mr. Majithia and labeled him the mastermind of drug racket. He said that earlier police had arrested Maninder Singh Aulakh and Jagjit Singh Chahl close confidents of Majithia and general secretary of Youth Akali Dal. The police have claimed to have arrested about 50 persons on the basis of confessions made by Jagdish Bhola, now separate yard sticks were being used for Majithia, also named by Bhola.

 He stated that Mr. Majithia's was involved in drug and liquor mafia and sand mining mafia with the blessings of Badal family being the brother-in-law of Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Badal. Mr. Majithia rigged the democratic system; Ranjit Singh Rana Youth Akali Dal leader had killed ASI Ravinderpal Singh in Amritsar who was trying to protect his daughter's modesty. The members of Youth Akali Dal headed by Mr. Majithia beaten up Tehsildar Gurjinder Singh Benipal and SSP S.S..Mand in Ludhiana.  He said that today Mr. Majithia was not only danger to democracy and peace of Punjab and warned Mr. Badal that one day Mr. Majithia would also be challenge to the political legacy of Badal family.

 PPCC President said that instead of seeking an apology from people of Punjab and taking action against key operators of drug trade, Mr. Badal has been using government machinery and legal system to protect Mr. Majithia. To pre-empt legal course against Mr. Majithia, the state Police has also in haste filed Challan against Bhola while the investigation into drug scandal is still going on.

 Mr. Bajwa accused Badal family for ruining the youth of Punjab. He said that a robust state was being pushed towards drug menace. He said that people of Punjab would get an opportunity in the Lok Sabha elections to teach a lesson to ruling alliance.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Chain hunger strike started by Congress party would continue till the whole drug racket is exposed and culprits brought to book. In the meantime the party would announce new programme of agitation. He said that every day party leaders including MLAs and DCC presidents from two assembly constituencies would sit on hunger. In the evening candle March would be held in Sector 17 plaza at Chandigarh. He thanked the Congress workers and common people for huge response to 'Chakka Jaam' agitation on January 16 and He appealed to people of Punjab, all NGOs, social and religious organizations to support the war against drugs.

 Mrs. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal former PPCC President and Mr. Laal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh Dhillon Vice Presidents of PPCC and Tarlochan Singh Soond MLA and Vice President, Mr. Joginder Singh Punjgrain, Mr. Gurkirat Singh Kotli, Gurcharan Singh Boparai, Mr. Navtej Cheema, Sukhjinder Randhawa, Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu, Balbir Sidhu (All MLAs) also joined Mr. Bajwa in the hunger strike and extended full support to fight against drug mafia.

 Others who sat on hunger strike along with Mr. Bajwa included Mr. Ashwani Sekhri secretary AICC, Mr. Kuljit Singh Nagra Secretary AICC, Mr. Randeep Singh Nabha MLA and Vice President PPCC, Mr. Surinderpal Singh Sibia Vice President PPCC, Mr. Sukhjinder Raj Singh Majithia General Secretary PPCC, Dr. Raj Kumar Chhabewal General Secretary PPCC, Mrs. Lakhwinder Kaur Garcha General Secretary, Mr. Ramesh Singla General Secretary, Rajanbir Singh General Secretary, Mr. Anoop Bhullar.

 

 

“Chakka jam” protest in support of CBI inquiry into the Rs.6000 crore synthetic drug racket

Congress to continue stir, chain hunger strike from Jan 19

Chandigarh, January 16, 2014

The Punjab Congress held a two-hour “chakka jam” protest in support of their demand for expulsion of Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia and a CBI probe into the multi-crore drug racket across the state.

 In a statement issued here Mr. Bajwa said that the anger of people of Punjab against drug menace was evident from the fact that thousands of common people joined the protest at different places. He expressed concern for the inconvenience caused to commuters and said that there is no option left other than coming on roads for forcing the Chief Minister to order CBI probe. He said that the entire SAD-BJP government was busy in saving the skin of Mr. Majithia. He said that Chakka Jam was peaceful and completely successful all over the state.

 He said that SAD protest against him (Bajwa) was an attempt to divert attention from Majithia and other two ministers involved in the drug racket. He wondered that Chief Minister had powers to order CBI inquiry into the involvement of Congress leaders and Akali ministers as well in the drug racket, and then what is the logic of protest. Ever heard of ruling party only protesting and not exercising its powers? He said that Congress would welcome CBI inquiry into drug menace during Congress rule from 2002 to 2007.

 Mr. Bajwa said that he had sent a letter to Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal  on January 8 last requesting him to order CBI inquiry into the drug scandal so that the powerful people sitting behind the curtain who are patronizing the drug trade in Punjab could be arrested and punished. He said that he had failed to understand the real fears in mind of Mr. Badal for not ordering CBI inquiry. He said that if Punjab police had arrested 50 other criminals named by drug lord Jagdish Bhola, then why same yard stick is not applied on Mr. Majithia. Even Maninder Singh Aulakh co-accused in this case and close confident of Mr. Majithia was named by Jagdish Bhola.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Punjab Police would not be in position to hold inquiry against a cabinet minister unless he resigns from his office and surrender before police for investigation. He said that several international drug traffickers, including some NRI friends of Badal family, were involved in the drug racket. He said that one can imagine the size and reach of drug racket from the mere fact that drugs worth Rs.6000 crores were recovered and how much would be the volume of drugs, the Jagdish Bhola and his accomplices had already supplied in last five to six years time.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party would launch indefinite chain hunger strike from January 19 and he will sit on fast on first day. He said that party would intensify the agitation if Chief Minister continued to protect Mr. Majithia. He said that previous track record of Mr. Badal is disgusting because he had given clean chit to two of his cabinet colleagues Gulsar Singh Ranike and Sikandar Singh Maluka. This time the matter is not solely of corruption, the issue is bigger and alarming. Drug menace has ruined Punjab and ministers in Badal's cabinet are lining its pockets with dirty money. He also rejected the logic that CBI inquiry would take 10 to 20 years. There are hundreds of cases under NDPC act in which drug traffickers escaped conviction due to loose investigation. 

 

Bajwa meets Governor, demands President’s Rule in Punjab under article 356

PPCC President says, break down of law and order reached at flash point

 Chandigarh, January 9-

 Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today demanded to impose President’s rule in Punjab under article 356 of Indian Constitution following total failure of Government of state police machinery and involvement of senior ministers and police officers of SAD-BJP government in the multi crore drug racket.

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa along with other senior party leaders S. Charanjit Singh Channi, S. Kewal Singh Dhillon Vice Presidents PPCC, S. Fateh jung Singh Bajwa, Smt. Aruna Chaudhary, Sh. Jasbir Singh Gill Dimpa, Smt. Lakhwinder Kaur Garcha, Sh. Rampal Dhaipie General Secretaries PPCC, S. Balbir Singh Sidhu President DCC Mohali, S. Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa   President DCC Gurdaspur, S. Sukhpal Singh Khaira Spokesperson PPCC and S. Gurpartap Singh Mann Secretary PPCC today called upon the Honb’le Governor of Punjab Mr. Shiv Raj Patil and submitted a memorandum giving details of exposures made by a dismissed Deputy Superintendent of Police Jagdish Bhola who named a senior minister (Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia), running the drug racket.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Honb’le Governor listened to plea made by PPCC and assured that he would consider the points stated in the memorandum.

 The memorandum read, “This is to bring to your kind attention that the already deteriorating and collapsed Rule of Law   has reached a flash point. With regard to total failure of the Govt. of Punjab and the State Police machinery, we seek your kind intervention in this matter”.

 Mr. Bajwa wrote that to be specific, very recently Jagdish Singh Bhola got arrested in relation to a drug racket and made shocking revelations about the involvement of senior ministers and police officials of the Punjab Government in the multi-crore international drug racket. It is imperative to point out the drug addiction and trafficking in the State of Punjab has assumed an unimaginable proportion that is plaguing the youth of Punjab and continues unabated with impunity.

 PPCC President informed the Governor that the accused had made specific statement to the effect that senior Punjab Police officials & Senior Ministers of State Government are involved in drug trafficking and there exists a nexus between State Police, Ministers & the drug peddlers. There is a complete breakdown of the state machinery as the care takers of the State are themselves involved in perpetrating such heinous crimes.  It is clear the State Police will not conduct the investigation in a transparent & clear manner.

 He elaborated that the State Police will carry out investigation in a completely biased manner due to involvement of its own department & state ministers; rather they are the judge of their own case as Police Department is sub-ordinate to the State Government.

 Mr. Bajwa said in the memorandum, “Drug trafficking as a crime has national and international ramifications that would be best investigated by a central premier agency such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (C.B.I.) The case at hand, involves persons spread across several states and it also prima facie appears that international elements are involved in this racket that has the potential of jeopardizing the national security of our country. I would like to emphasize that drug trafficking is having a catastrophic effect on the citizens of our country and the youth of Punjab in particular”. 

 Mr. Bajwa requested the Governor that in order to ensure that the lamp of prosperity and growth continues to illuminate the future generations of our country, we all must join hands to tackle this epidemic of drug trafficking and ensure that stringent punishment is meted out to such tall persons who are involved in this racket irrespective of their affiliation, position or influence. As aforementioned, the Rule of Law has collapsed and the police have become a tool in the hands of their political bosses and there is total Jungle Raj. 

 He further stated that to save the State and the coming generation it has become impetrative imposition of President Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution of India. “I will reiterate that this case requires urgent attention in view of the national and international ramifications of the crime” Mr. Bajwa pleaded to the Honb’le Governor.

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Punjab Congress calls for 'Punjab Bandh' on Jan 16, to gherao CM's residence on Jan 20

Bajwa demands immediate dismissal and arrest of Majithia

Questions BJP's silence over Majithia's involvement in drug racket

 

Chandigarh, January 8-

 Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa today gave a call for 'Punjab Bandh' on January 16 to force the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to dismiss his Revenue minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia and order CBI inquiry to probe Rs.6000 crore synthetic drug racket and role of Mr. Majithia and two other cabinet ministers.

 Mr. Bajwa while addressing a press conference here said the Congress workers would also gherao the residence of Chief Minister at Chandigarh on January 20 besides holding dharnas and protests all over the state. The Congress leaders would start indefinite hunger strike from January 21 in Mohali till the time a criminal case is not registered against Mr. Majithia and he is dropped from cabinet.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party would not allow the Chief Minister to hush up the issue of Mr. Majithia's involvement in the drug racket after strong evidence against him. He said that drug lord Jagdish Bhola who had made confessions in public and also revealed the name of Mr. Majithia during police interrogation. Bhola is main accused and he has directly named the minister and also stated that three other ministers are involved in the drug trafficking.

 Mr. Bajwa said that all state and national highways and rail traffic would be blocked on January 16. The PPCC leaders would meet the President of India on January 10 to apprise them of involvement of SAD ministers in the drug racket. He said that this was not simply a drug racket; it has implications of national security since chain of drug traffickers is linked to drug mafia in foreign countries. "The conduct of Mr. Majithia and other guilty ministers amount to sedition", he stated.

 He said that Congress party had time and again raised hue and cry that drug mafia was being patronized by Mr. Majithia. He said that since Mr. Majithia's sister Harsimrat Kaur MP from Bathinda is married to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Badal family is desperately trying to save Mr. Majithia.

 Mr. Bajwa questioned the silence of BJP an alliance partner with Shiromani Akali Dal(SAD) on the issue of Mr. Majithia's direct involvement in the drug case. He said that BJP leaders were hand in glove with SAD leaders and they have become puppets in the hand of Badal family. He said that BJP had failed to play its role of responsible partner on every issue including imposing of heavy taxes on urban people.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party would meet the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab on January 9 and submit a memorandum in this regard. All the frontal organizations of Congress i.e. Mahila Congress, Youth Akali Dal and National Students Union would also hold protest dharnas. He said that national level Congress leaders would also participate in the Dharna. He said that protest would continue all over the state to force Chief Minister to order CBI inquiry.

 Mr. Bajwa also demanded to probe the involvement of Punjab Police officers in the racket. He said that Congress would make aggressive use of social media to expose the deadly nexus of SAD-Police and criminals.

Others who present were S. Kuljit Singh Nagra, Secretary, AICC, S. Charanjit Singh Channi, S. Charandeep Singh Kamboj Vice Presidents, S. Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa, S. Rajanbir Singh, Sh. Rampal Dhaipi General Secretaries, S. Ajit Inder Singh Mofar, MLA, S. Balbir Singh Sidhu President Distt. Congress Committee, Sh. Jaiveer Singh Shergill Spokesman PPCC,  Sh. R.R. Bhardwaj, Chairman RTI Cell, Sh. Inderpal Singh Dhanna Executive Member & S. Gurpartap Singh Mann.

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PPCC Office Bearers demand arrest of Majithia, CBI probe into drug racket

Bajwa announced mass movement against SAD-BJP government on power tariff and high taxes

Nagra warns dissidents, arm twisting tactics will not be tolerated, asks for unity

House thanked Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Sh. Rahul Gandhi for due representation to all sections in PPCC

 Chandigarh, January 6-

 The office bearers of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today demanded immediate arrest of revenue minister Bikram Singh Majithia for his alleged involvement in drug racket and sought a probe by CBI into whole drug racket in which whole Badal family is involved.

 The office bearers of PPCC also passed resolution to thank AICC President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi, AICC General Secretary and in charge of Punjab Mr. Shakeel Ahmed and Secretary Mr. Harish Chaudhary for giving representation to all sections of society and particularly the youth in the PPCC executive body and district units.

 On the call given by PPCC president Mr. Partap Singh, the office bearers of newly constituted PPCC passed a resolution seeking criminal proceedings against Majithia who has been named by drug lord Jagdish Bhola as one of the three cabinet ministers involved in drug racket worth Rs. 6000 crores. He said that Jagdish Bhola was a link between SAD ministers and international drug mafia. He asked the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal what stops him from ordering CBI inquiry into whole drug racket.

 PPCC president said that they would on January 7 file a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court to seek CBI probe into drug racket in Punjab to expose the three ministers in SAD-BJP government who have nexus with drug smugglers.

 Mr. Bajwa said that Congress party would soon launch a mass movement against the SAD-BJP government on burning issues of public importance. Listing the issues, he said that Congress would fight for lowering the power tariff by 33 percent for all type of consumers and 20 percent cut in tariff for small scale industry in the state. He demanded to give 250 units of electricity free of cost to Scheduled castes and economically weaker sections irrespective of their caste and class. He said that Mr. Sukhbir Badal was claiming that Punjab has surplus power then what is the harm in giving some concessions to the power consumers. He also demanded 12 hour power supply to agriculture sector whereas at present farmers are getting only 4 hours supply on alternative days.

 Mr. Bajwa said that SAD-BJP alliance had in its manifesto promised to given Rs.1000 unemployment allowance to educated youth till they get jobs. There are 55 lakh unemployed in Punjab but no new jobs are being offered to them. He said that ruling alliance had promised to double old age and handicapped person’s pension from Rs.250 to 500 per month but it remained unfulfilled. He demanded to give person at par with Haryana where Rs.1000 per month is given every month.

 He also demanded base rate of property tax at par with Haryana. He announced that if Congress comes to power in Punjab they would withdraw the property tax. He demanded a cut of one percent in VAT to bring it at par with other states.

 Mr. Bajwa asked PPCC office bearers and district presidents to gherao the houses of SAD, BJP ministers and MLAs to force the SAD-BJP government to accept the demands. He said that he would continue the mass contact progamme and will lead the people in agitation against corrupt Badal government. He said that duties would be assigned to Vice Presidents and General Secretaries to make the mass movement successful. He also asked the party leaders to apprise people of Right to Information, Right to Education, Right to Work and Right to Food given by UPA government.

 Mr. Bajwa requested the center government to take over PIMS at Jalandhar which is being run by Surjit Singh Rakhra a minister in Badal cabinet. He said that mismanagement had spoiled the career of students of MBBS. He said that giving PIMS control to Rakhra was a conspiracy to grab property worth Rs.2000 crores.

 Mr. Kuljit Singh Nagra Secretary AICC warned the dissidents who are harming the interests of party. He said that Congress high command would not tolerate arm twisting tactics. He said that Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa had full backing of party high command. He said that Congress had to fight against SAD-BJP alliance and all leaders shall support Bajwa to fulfill his responsibility. He advised Congress leaders to be loyal to post of PPCC President and not to Mr. Bajwa. He extended full support to Bajwa and said that party leaders would obey all decisions taken by him.

 All Vice presidents, General Secretaries, secretaries and district congress presidents were present in the meeting.

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SAD-BJP alliance in Punjab suffering from mistrust: Bajwa

Sukhbir trying to hijack BJP agenda, BJP lost urban base

 

Chandigarh, January 3-

 Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today said that SAD-BJP alliance in Punjab was heading for break up and both the parties have lost trust in each other.

 In a statement issued here Mr. Bajwa said that opportunist character of both the parties had came to fore after SAD President and Deputy Chief Minister was seen hunting for the BJP’s agenda and making attempts to sneak into the bastion of SAD. He said that SAD and BJP had common interests of communal politics and forwarding their business interest.

 He said that Mr. Sukhbir Badal was desperate after sensing poor performance of his party in the coming Lok Sabha polls. He said that while BJP is dependent on support of urban voters in the state, Mr. Sukhbir Badal had been poaching for traders and other urban sections to deprive BJP of its strength. He pointed out that Mr. Badal had hijacked the agenda of BJP’s meeting with traders and instead held a meeting with the business community leaders at Jalandhar.

 Mr. Bajwa said that BJP had lost its base in among the traders since it failed to safeguard their interests. He said that BJP didn’t resist the imposition of heavy taxes mainly the property tax on urban people. The heavy penalty was imposed on illegal residential colonies and no attention was paid to civil amenities in the cities. He said that direct and indirect taxes worth Rs.8000 crore were imposed in a year. He said that urban voters had returned to the fold of Congress party which is reason of desperation for Mr. Sukhbir Badal.

 Mr. Bajwa said that it was not first time that SAD embarrassed BJP but Congress is mainly concerned about the welfare of urban people. He said that in the tug of war between SAD and BJP to win over urban voters, the common citizens were suffering. He said that SAD-BJP alliance had betrayed the people of state. He said that poor infrastructure in the cities speaks volume of performance of this government; He said that Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal had given tactic support to the activities of SAD against BJP.

 Mr. Bajwa assured traders of the state that Congress would watch their interests when returned to power. He said that Lok Sabha election would give an opportunity to people to express their anger against SAD-BJP government.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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