GAUTAM DHEER: Do you think that in the last few years, a space has been created for the re-entry of radical elements in Punjab—people come out brandishing swords at the slightest provocation?

In the aftermath of the unfortunate incident at Vienna where a leader of the Dera Sachkhand was killed, there was violence in several parts of the state. Who was behind that? Who initiated the unrest? Who benefited? The answers are obvious. A thorough investigation into who caused militancy in the state should be conducted. Then the role of Congress will be clear.

MUKESH BHARDWAJ: What about the militancy that had gripped the state? Do you think that too was a creation of the

Congress?

We have said so many times. Let me tell you about a meeting we had with then prime minister, Indira Gandhi, when militancy was at an early stage. The meeting was held in Delhi. She kept sitting, angry and uncommunicative. Even basic courtesies were not observed. We asked her to constitute a legislative committee to consider our demands but she did not agree to that. We requested that the kirpan be allowed on flights as it was only a religious symbol. However, she was very inflexible and did not accede to any of our demands. In politics, you have to pay for even small mistakes. Look at Rajiv Gandhi. There was no need for him to interfere in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka.

SUKHDEEP KAUR: Do you feel that making Sukhbir Badal the deputy chief minister was a move that reflected lack of planning since he couldn’t be elected within the stipulated six months?

... contd.