CHANDIGARH, Punjab—Former Punjab Chief Minister and Congress’ deputy leader in Lok Sabha Captain Amarinder Singh has extended support to the cause of Bapu Surat Singh Khalsa who is on fast unto death since January 16 for the release of Sikh political prisoners. However, he appealed him to end his fast “in the interest of Punjab”.
In a statement issued to media here today, the Congress MP said that demand of Bapu Surat Singh was totally justified as it is against the Indian law and constitution to keep somebody behind bars beyond the sentences delivered by the courts.
He said, “Nowhere in the civilized and democratic world you see anybody being detained even after completion of their sentences. Even the Supreme Court of India has also clarified that the states can take a call on such prisoners.”
He expressed surprise as to why the Chief Minister Parkash Badal was delaying and complicating the matters. He said, “Badal is pushing the situation to a boil for petty parochial and partisan gains. I warn him not to complicate simple situations for small gains. He has done so in the past and he was doing it now.”
Expressing serious concern over the deteriorating health of Bapu Surat Singh, the former Chief Minister appealed him to end his fast. “Punjab and the Punjabis need you for the selfless cause you have espoused at the risk of your life”, he urged him, adding, “your life is precious to everyone and more so for the cause you have taken up.”
Capt. Amarinder Singh had recently announced a tour of the US and Canada.
