SAD(A) rejects CM’s appeal on Jor Mela conference

Our Correspondent

Fatehgarh Sahib, December 16

The Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) has rejected Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh’s appeal to political parties to not hold conferences during the upcoming Shaheedi Jor Mela here. “We will hold our conference on December 27 because religion and politics are inter-linked for the Sikh community. We have applied to the Deputy Commissioner for permission,” said Iqbal Singh Tiwana, SAD(A) spokesman. He said Dhian Singh Mand, acting parallel Jathedar of Akal Takht, and other Sikh leaders who took part in the Insaaf Morcha at Bargari would attend the conference. SAD(A) chief Simranjit Singh Mann will be main speaker.

Meanwhile, the Congress, the SAD and AAP have decided not to organise political conferences on the occasion. Tributes will be paid to the Sahibzadas by SGPC and SAD leaders. Sources said the Chief Minister had given his consent to pay obeisance at Gurdwara Sahib on the eve of Jor Mela.

When contacted, Shiv Dular Singh Dhillon, DC, said the SAD(A) was free to hold its conference as the venue was located on the party’s own land.