Congress drags BJP into row over Badal statement

Calling Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal’s demand for the premature release of 13 convicted terrorists — including those responsible for assassination of former Punjab CM Beant Singh — “shocking”, the Congress on Wednesday asked the BJP to explain how it could continue its alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal.

“It is astonishing that a constitutionally elected, democratically elected government of a state as vital as Punjab has officially sought the release of convicted terrorists … Prime Minister Modi and his entire BJP team talk about national sovereignty, national security and the pride of India. It is quite amazing that we have heard no denunciation, no condemnation so far,” Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said.