SAS NAGAR: “After formation of Congress government in Punjab, the demands and problems of ex-servicemen will be solved on priority basis,” said Balbir Sidhu, Congress candidate from SAS Nagar while addressing ex-servicemen during the celebrations of All India First Armed Forces Veterans’ Day at the community hall in Phase 6 here on Sunday.

The programme was organised by All India  ex-servicemen joint action front ‘Sanjha Morcha’. It was largely attended by the ex-servicemen of three services from Mohali, Morinda, Fathegarh Sahib, Khanna and Jalandhar.

Sidhu further said, “We will raise ex-servicemen welfare issues with the Centre. The ex-gratia amount will be enhanced and we will try for the release of prisoners of 1971 war. The shortcomings of OROP and 7th pay commission will be rectified and the ex-servicemen will be made free from paying tax on highways.”

“To save Punjab from further downslide, it is very urgent to bring Congress into power. To reduce unemployment, check farmers’ suicides and drugs and to give ex-servicemen their dues, we all should now stand unitedly to ensure the Congress victory in the upcoming polls.

Meanwhile, homage was paid to the martyrs of defence forces.

Col Charanjit Sigh Khera (retd), general secretary of Sanjha Morcha, said that subsequent government failed to recognise their services, sacrifices and instead lowered the status of defence force.

The veterans appreciated the points included for the welfare of ex-servicemen in the Congress manifesto. They said that they are confident that they will get an opportunity to serve Punjab government in administration works if Congress comes into power.

Col RS Bopari, president, Sanjha Morcha highlighted the details, policies and views of Capt Amrinder. Among others who attended the event were Maj Gen SPS Grewal, Brig KS Kalon, Brig Inderjit and other officers.