Malerkotla: “The forces which are out to disrupt the atmosphere of communal harmony in Punjab would not be allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs at any cost.” These views were reiterated by Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal and Local Government, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu at a local eidgah here while congratulating the Muslim community on behalf of the State Government on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr.
In his greetings to the Muslim community, Mr Badal said that prophet Muhammad Sahib gave the message of peace, brotherhood and co-existence to the world. He exhorted the people to continue making efforts to ensure that the financially deprived sections of the society are also included in the festivities. The FM announced Rs one-crore on behalf of the State Government for the Idgah and said that the first budget of the Congress Government has major announcements to provide every necessary facility to the Muslim community which includes Rs three-crore for Urdu academy at Malerkotla, Rs 10-crore for graveyards in the state and benefits under various welfare schemes.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Sidhu announced Rs 50-lakh for Idgah from his fund and gave an assurance regarding making Malerkotla a district. He also said that the promise of establishing a Government medical college at Malerkotla would also be fulfilled. Calling Eid a festival of mutual brotherhood and harmony, the Minister exhorted the people to ensure peaceful co-existence and devote themselves towards serving humanity.
On the occasion, Public Works Department Minister Razia Sultana thanked Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh and Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal for taking significant decisions concerning the Muslim community in the budget. In her greetings to the people, she said that the promise made by the Chief Minister to accord district status to Malerkotla would be made good soon.
