Teheran, June 9
President Mohammad Khatami crushed his opponents in Iran’s presidential elections, winning an unexpectedly decisive mandate to forge ahead with his controversial democratic reforms. 

The 57-year-old, accused by conservatives of undermining the Islamic regime by allowing unprecedented freedoms, showed the people were clearly on his side after romping to a second term with nearly 80 per cent of the popular vote. With 10 out of 28 provinces counted nationwide by early this morning, Mr Khatami had already secured another four years in an office he once said he didn’t want to hold again in the face of harsh conservative opposition. 

His nearest of nine challengers, conservative former Labour Minister Ahmad Tavakoli, managed just 14.3 per cent while voters gave the popular mid-ranking cleric an untouchable 79.88 per cent, the Interior Ministry said. AFP

Dhariwal (Gurdaspur), June 9
Assuring permanent peace at all costs, Mr Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister, said the ‘fiery slogans’ raised by certain parties and factions could hamper the developmental process initiated by his government.

Addressing the first district-level pre-election rally in the hub of Majha region here today, Mr Badal claimed that the SAD-BJP alliance would sweep all Assembly seats during the forthcoming elections. He claimed that the Punjab Pradesh Congress, which had won 14 seats during the previous Assembly elections, would not be able to open its accounts. Apart from Akali ministers, the top leadership of the BJP was present at the rally.

Earlier talking to the press at Kathunangal (Amritsar), Mr Badal said he was ready to respond to the call of Giani Joginder Singh Vedanti, Jathedar, Akal Takht, for Panthic unity. He, however, said unity could not be reached on any pre-condition or on the terms of the leaders of rival Akali factions.

He claimed whereas he was sincere on forging unity, other factions had been playing into the hands of the Congress.

To another question, Mr Badal said he was not aware about the ‘conflict’ between Mr Jagdev Singh Talwandi, SGPC chief, and the Jathedar of Akal Takht. “I have read about it in newspapers only”. However, Mr Badal said he would urge heads of both institutions to resolve their differences, if any, amicably.

Mr Badal evaded a direct question on Giani Kewal Singh, Jathedar, Takht Damdama Sahib, who is facing a criminal case. Giani Kewal Singh has been directed by a Talwandi Sabo court to appear before it on June 11 in connection with the alleged suicide by his daughter-in-law.

On repeated queries, Mr Badal admitted that Giani Kewal Singh and Prof Manjit Singh had met him at Chandigarh. However, he refused to divulge what transpired at the meeting. Mr Badal evaded an answer on allegations by Jathedar Vedanti that money and liquor was used during the SGPC elections to woo voters. Mr Badal said the SGPC elections were held five years ago. Hence, he could not comment on these.

Mr Talwandi and Mr Badal held a one-to-one talk at Kathunangal. Sources said Mr Badal suggested to Mr Talwandi to resolve the differences with the Jathedar of Akal Takht as such issues brought a bad name to the party.

Addressing the rally at Dhariwal, Mr Badal said the SAD-BJP government could ensure permanent, peace in the state.