For 4th yr, no tableau of state at R-Day parade

Jupinderjit Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, January 21

For the fourth consecutive year, Punjab’s tableau will not be seen at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.

The central selection committee has not accepted the broadly ‘Panthic’-theme subjects for the tableau suggested by the Akali-led state government.

The state government had sent four subjects for the tableau. Three of these were about showcasing Sikh history and monuments which are largely associated with the pet ‘Panthic’ subjects of the Akali Dal.

These were Virasat-e-Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib, Chappar Chirri near Mohali and the Sikh Ghalughara monuments — all developed by the Akalis, especially Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.

The fourth — solar power generation — was a favourite topic of Revenue and Public Relations Minister Bikram Majithia, who does not enjoy very cordial relations with the BJP.

The Virasat-e-Khalsa theme was accepted in the first round of scrutiny by the selection committee that includes representatives of different ministries. However, the theme fell out of favour in the next two rounds. Officials concerned with the selection process said no politics should be read into selection or rejection of a tableau.

An official said the competition is tough. Last year, only 16 states could participate. And this year, the number is down to 13. He said the themes recommended by Punjab were neither Panthic nor political. “These are symbols of our history, culture and heritage.”

A government source said the non-selection was a setback as the Centre has not given the due financial package to the state besides the compensation to the farmers over damage to crops caused by weather disturbances. An Akali leader said the so-called ‘Panthic’ themes were symbols of Punjab’s and especially Sikh sacrifices for the protection of the country and other communities.