Manpreet condemns Assembly incident

Manpreet condemns Assembly incident
Rajay Deep
Tribune News Service

Gidderbaha, December 8
Condemning the incident that took place at the Punjab Vidhan Sabha today, finance and planning minister Manpreet Singh Badal termed it the saddest day of his political life.
Talking to this correspondent during a cultural event here, Manpreet avoided targeting the leaders in person but lamented, “Vidhan Sabha is a sacred place. If we, the elected representatives, would behave in such a hostile manner, what would we ask public to follow?”
“Moreover, across the party lines, we all know each other personally. The scuffle in which turbans of some leaders fell on ground will leave nothing but embarrassment to all,” he said.
Replying to the speculation about levying octroi again, Manpreet said, “A two-member committee is analysing pros and cons. As of now, I could not see its report. I can comment on the issue only after seeing it.”
“Being a finance minister, I can say only one thing, whatever adds to the revenue of the state, is always welcome,” said Manpreet.
While talking about the achievements of the ruling government in the past about three-year period, the minister also spoke about a number of projects, which were yet to see the light of the day. He said, “I accept that many of projects are yet to take off but I am a bit satisfied with the fact that we have been putting efforts continuously.”
“It is not the financial crisis but the lack of spirit among the people, which has been proving a major hurdle in the implementation of proposals,” said Manpreet.
Denying any conflict with his cousin and deputy CM Sukhbir Singh Badal, Manpreet said he respected him a lot. Meanwhile, he maintained, "Being planning minister, I have to take various decisions, which are future-oriented and sometimes not accepted by others. Moreover, while performing the duty, I focus upon the welfare of the state rather than anything else."