Punjab CM Capt Amarinder in line of fire, again

Tribune News Service

Hisar, November 29

The verbal duel continues between the Chief Ministers of Haryana and Punjab over the farmers’ agitation. On Sunday, Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar attacked his Punjab counterpart Capt Amarinder Singh, claiming that the latter used “inappropriate language” that did not behove a CM.

“It is better not to respond to the Punjab CM’s utterances. People on social media are commenting that a Chief Minister should not behave in such a manner with his counterpart. At least, I should show restraint and stay away from responding in the same vein,” he told the media on the sidelines of a function here.

Khattar reiterated that the farmers’ agitation was sponsored by the Congress and the Punjab Government. “The state forces used water cannon and tear gas shells to stop farmers marching from Delhi. This cannot be construed as use of force.”

When asked whether or not the state acted under pressure mounted by the Centre, Khattar said, “The state government acted in view of the Covid pandemic. The state government has been following the Covid protocols in organising functions. I am surprised at the Punjab Government which sponsored the agitation during the pandemic. Who will be responsible if the virus spreads because of the protest? Of course, the Punjab Government.”

The CM said he tried to talk to Capt Amarinder to discuss the matter, but he did not respond. “Initially, the Punjab CM denied that I had tried to contact him. But when we put forth the records, he was caught off guard,” he added.

Amarinder to blame: Vij

Ambala, November 29

Home Minister Anil Vij has blamed Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh for the farmers’ agitation.

“Farmers across the country have accepted the new laws. But in Punjab, they are protesting mainly because of political reasons and manoeuvring of Capt Amarinder. The Centre has invited farmers for a meeting. We hope the farmers will realise that the laws will benefit them and end the protest,” Vij said. — TNS