Punjab Cabinet to discuss R-Day violence today

Chandigarh, January 31

The Council of Ministers is meeting on Monday to discuss the current situation in view of the Republic Day violence. The Cabinet is expected to approve the CM’s offer of providing jobs to a family member of each of the state farmers who died during the stir at the Delhi borders.

Near 160 farmers have died during the ongoing stir against the central farm laws. The offer of government jobs will be in addition to the compensation of Rs 5 lakh that will be given to the families of the deceased farmers. “The CM’s announcement will reaffirm the Congress support to the farmers,” said a senior party leader.

Meanwhile, the new excise policy, with marginal hike in the excise duty and increase in the quota of the IMFL, country liquor and beer is expected to be cleared in the Cabinet meeting. Sources said projecting a revenue increase of at least 15 per cent, the existing licence holders would be offered a renewal option, failing which a draw of lots would be held. — TNS