The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Government of India to effectively seal the borders of the country to curb the menace of cross border terrorism that was posing serious threat to unity and integrity of the nation.Interacting with the people gathered at the residence of Ikaagar Singh who was killed by the terrorists on Friday night here today, the Chief Minister said that state government was fully committed to preserve the peace and communal harmony in Punjab and no one would be allowed to disturb it at any cost. He said that the terror attack at Pathankot was an unfortunate incident, which needs to be condemned harshly. However, Mr Badal said that it was the high time that centre must take a call on this sensitive issue by checking the pilferage from across the border.
Hailing the commendable role played by the security forces in thwarting this direct assault on unity and integrity of the nation, the Chief Minister said that the united effort of the state and central security agencies have once again foiled the nefarious designs of the anti - national forces. He lauded the gallantry deeds of our security forces who were ever ready to face any challenge to the security of the country.“The entry country salutes these brave hearts that are ever ready to combat any such move against unity and integrity of the nation” added Mr. Badal.Sharing grief with the family members of Ikaagar Singh, the Chief Minister said that he was a ‘national martyr’, who laid his life for the country. He said that though it was an irreparable loss for the family and the entry country in general and state government in particular was solidly behind the family in this hour of crisis. Mr Badal said that the state government would take every step to safeguard the interests of this family.Meanwhile, the Chief Minister announced a financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the family besides government job for the wife of Ikaagar Singh. He also said that state government would give old age pension to parents of Ikaagar Singh.The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLA Mrs Seema Devi and Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr S Karunaraju.