Punjab Terror Attack Claims Two Police Lives
On December 1, 1985, suspected terrorists carried out a deadly ambush in Ferozepur district, killing two police personnel on patrol duty. The attackers strategically positioned themselves after hearing the approaching motorcycle engine sound, taking the officers completely by surprise in this calculated assault.
Chief Minister Surjit Singh Barnala confirmed to United News International from Chandigarh that the police officials were caught unaware during their routine patrol. The assailants had planned their attack meticulously, using the element of surprise to their advantage.
Separate Attack Targets Religious Figure
In a related incident from Ludhiana district, Arjan Singh, a Nirankari from village Rampura, was shot and seriously injured by two unidentified youths. The victim was immediately transported to a Ludhiana hospital, where medical authorities reported his condition had stabilized and was out of danger.
These attacks occurred against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in Punjab during the mid-1980s, marking another violent chapter in the region's history.
Rajiv Gandhi's Nuclear Diplomacy with Pakistan
In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi disclosed that he had extended an invitation to Pakistani President General Zia-ul-Haq to attend the inauguration of India's fast-breeder reactor at Kalpakkam near Madras on December 16.
Gandhi strongly asserted that India had no intentions of developing nuclear weapons, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the country's nuclear program. He stated that General Zia could personally verify that India's nuclear initiatives were entirely dedicated to peaceful purposes.
Civil Unrest in Bombay
Meanwhile, in south Bombay, violent clashes erupted between police and pavement stall owners at Null Bazar during the demolition of unauthorized structures. The confrontation resulted in at least 50 injuries, with some victims sustaining serious wounds.
Police authorities opened fire three times, discharging a total of 16 rounds to disperse stone-throwing protesters. Among the injured were several police personnel and G R Khairnar, the head of the Bombay Municipal Corporation's demolition squad.
India Shifts Stance on International Trade
In international economic developments, the Netherlands Minister for Foreign Trade announced that India had reversed its previously reluctant position regarding negotiations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
The minister emphasized the crucial need for developing countries' participation, warning that without their involvement, trade talks would essentially become a dialogue exclusively between wealthy nations. India's changed stance marked an important shift in global trade dynamics.
These December 1, 1985 events, as documented in The Indian Express archives, capture a pivotal moment in India's security, diplomatic, and economic landscape, reflecting the complex challenges and opportunities the nation faced during this period.
