Removal of Chief Minister’s photographs from the blue cards of the Atta-Dal ration scheme.

To, Dated: 12.03.2009
Smt. Kusumjit Kaur, IAS
Chief Electoral Officer
Punjab.

Subject: Removal of Chief Minister’s photographs from the blue cards of the Atta-Dal ration scheme.

Dear Madam,
As we are aware that the SAD-BJP Govt. had initiated the ration scheme for the poor in Punjab. The blue ration cards issued to the beneficiaries carry the photograph of S. Prakash Singh Badal Chief Minister with a political message (copy of blue ration card attached).
Now that the model code of conduct has come into force with the announcement of Lok Sabha election, I would request that the photograph of the CM be removed from the ration cards and the blue colour of the card must also be changed, since the photo and the colour alongwith the slogan convey a political message that could influence the voters in favour of SAD-BJP. Further, I wish to clarify that the congress party is not against the ration scheme for the poor neither is our party for stopping the scheme, all we want is removal of photo of CM and the colour with the slogan.
Secondly, I am attaching a copy of press cutting of Tribune dated 11.03.2009 highlighting misuse of blank ratio cards lying with food and civil supplies official which are likely to be distributed to new benifecries in order to influence voters. All such new cards and identifying new benifecries must be stopped immediately.
I am sure my request would be considered at the earliest and the said department issued necessary instructions in the interest of free and fare elections in Punjab.

With Regards,

Sukhpal Singh Khaira
MLA Bholath