DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday vehemently pleaded the case of state for special package and tax heaven as it always faced the brunt of war from across the border.

Putting forth his view in the all party meeting called on by Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria, the Chief Minister said that whether it is war or any other exigency Punjab and Punjabis are always on the forefront. He said that Punjab always face the first brunt during every war and escalations adding that state needs special treatment for its enormous contribution. Bhagwant Singh Mann called upon all the parties to make concerted efforts for this noble cause so that Punjab can be a frontrunner state in the country adding that state government will raise this issue with GoI.

The Chief Minister said that besides being food bowl of the country, Punjab has always been its sword arm but its contribution has been hitherto ignored. He said that it is the high time when all the political parties should sink their differences and seek special package for the state by rising above the party lines. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is imperative to further give much needed push to the development and prosperity of the state.

The Chief Minister further said that all the political parties should unite for the cause of the state and its people so that interests of Punjab can be safeguarded. Bhagwant Singh Mann welcomed the leaders of the political parties for coming on short notice during this hour of need. He called upon them to show united stand during the hour of crisis for betterment of state and its people.

The Chief Minister said that the package should be given on lines of one given to Jammu-Kashmir and others. He said that the state government will also Raise the demand of Border area allowance for Doctors, Teachers, Anganwadi and other workers posted in Border Districts with the Government of India. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is the need of hour for giving major fillip to development and progress of state.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister announced that starting from Sunday he will be visiting the border areas of the state to assess the ground level situation. He said that Punjab, especially the border regions, has suffered a lot due to the mounting tension between both the countries. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that those brave hearts who had suffered huge losses during the bombardment and others will be duly compensated by the state government.

(editor@dailyworld.in)