Cong accuses Punjab minister of dishonouring national emblem

Claiming that it has possession of the cards, the party has appealed to Governor Shivraj Patil to immediately sack Lal from the Cabinet.

"The minister has dishonoured the national emblem by using it for his personal use. We request the Governor to immediately sack him from the Cabinet," local Congress leader Virender Sharma said.

"We will meet the police commissioner over the matter and show him the cards. If the administration fails to take any action, we will approach the High Court," Sharma said.

He said the party will also write to BJP national president Nitin Gadkari seeking Lal's dismissal from the party.

Both Lal and his son Mohinder could not be reached for their comments over the allegations despite repeated efforts.

Meanwhile, BJP's in-charge of Punjab Affairs, Shanta Kumar, told from Himachal Pradesh that he was "not aware" of the matter.

"I will inquire about the matter from party leaders in Punjab. Only then I can comment over the matter," Kumar said.

According to Congress leader and advocate Kamal Sachdeva, Section 3 of State Emblem Of India (Prohibition Of Improper Use) Act, 2005 prohibits use of national emblem for personal business, patent, design and canvassing, and its violation attracts a prison term of two years or Rs 5,000 penalty, or both.