THE formation of a Congress-Akali-Unionist coalition and the resignation from the Unionist Party of two Unionist Ministers, Nawab Ashiq Hussain and Sir Jamal Khan Leghari and their subsequent decision to join the Muslim League were the highlights of the tense drama of Ministry-making in the Punjab on Tuesday [March 5].

Two more Muslim Unionist M.L.A.s … have also declared their decision to join the Muslim League. As a result of this, the Party position in the Punjab now is Muslim League and Independents — 86. Congress-Akali-Unionist Coalition is the last bid on the part of Khizr to become the quisling Premier with the help of non-Muslims.

The news has sent a wave of indignation among Muslim circles. Complete hartal will be observed all over the Punjab as a mark of resentment against the attempt of non-Muslims to dominate over the Punjab Muslim majority with the help of a few Muslim quislings. Enquiries made from Muslim League circles show that all Muslim Unionists and Muslim Independents with the exception of Khizr Hyat Khan, Sir Allah Bux and probably Sir Muzaffar Ali Qazilbash will join the League. The Congress for all purposes has reduced itself to the status of a Hindu body as it indeed is….

Published in Dawn, March 6th, 2021