WORLD PUNJABI CONFERENCE PHOTOS

----- Original Message -----

From: Bilal

Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2003 8:16 AM

Subject: World Punjabi Conference

Dear Ratan,

Today one of my friend Dr Farrukh Khan, teaching post-colonial literature at LUMS, forwarded me the cite in response to which I am writing to you.

I attended the WPC held in London as a journalist. There are lots of controversies one can bring to light with solid undeniable facts but I would prefer to limit myself to the rumpus created at the conference cite. As for the arrangements, logistics and behavior of Amin Malik I can forward you contacts of the delegates from Pakistan whom can be contacted for further confirmation.

As for Amin Malik it is true that a Sikh guy broke his nose. But that unfortunate incident happened when Amin Malik pushed the Sikh guy physically when he was discussing the poor arrangements made by the conference host. The moment Amin Malik pushed the local Sikh guy he got furious and punched his face. It has got nothing to do with Iqbal Quasir except the fact that he is very well known in Sikh community because of his contribution to Punjabi language and literature and the book he has written about the Sikh Shrines in Pakistan. It has also got nothing to do with the Atta Ullah and others. I repeat that the facts about this unfortunate rumpus can be confirmed from other Pakistani delegates who were around at that moment because almost all of them were staying at a gurdwara and were about to leave board the buss near which the incident took place.

However, I am amazed at the shamelessness of the Amin Malik who instead of acknowledging the blunders is blaming the delegates who suffered because of his irresponsible and childish attitude.

Sincerely,

Bilal Ahmad.

Independent Researcher & Syndicated Columnist

Daily Pakistan, Lahore

The News, Lahore

Badaltee Dunya, Karachi

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