Punjab cabinet blames Pakistan for terror attack

The Punjab cabinet on Monday condemned Pakistan for "clandestinely perpetrating a terror attack in India" by targeting Dinanagar town.

Praising the swift action by Punjab Police in neutralising the three heavily armed terrorists, the cabinet said all measures would be taken to ensure peace in the state.

Placing on record the bravery of police officials and others in dealing with the terrorists, the cabinet commended their action.

The cabinet "eulogised the commendable role" of Gurdaspur Superintendent of Police Baljit Singh and three home guards in the counter-insurgency operation.

The cabinet also deeply mourned the killing of three civilians in the operation and "highly appreciated the exemplary valour and presence of mind" shown by Punjab Roadways driver Nanak Chand, who saved several precious lives.

It also lauded the alertness of two railway employees in averting any major tragedy, a state government spokesman said here on Monday.

The cabinet announced that driver Nanak Chand would be given a cash award of Rs.3 lakh, and honoured with a state award on Independence Day.

"His name would also be recommended to the Government of India for honouring him with the national bravery award. The cabinet also decided to regularise the services of both the driver and conductor of the bus," the spokesman said.

The cabinet also approved the appointment of Baljit Singh's son as a deputy superintendent of police (DSP) in Punjab Police as a special case.

It also approved a grant of Rs.25 lakh to the legal heirs of the police officer and Rs.10 lakh each to the family of the three home guards, who sacrificed their lives in the terrorist attack.