On May 13, 1986, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi bolstered his Council of Ministers by appointing 12 new members, including two at cabinet rank—such as Buta Singh as Home Minister—nine ministers of state, and one deputy minister. The expansion raised the council’s total to 58 members, with strong representation from states including Punjab, Assam, and Jammu and Kashmir. External Affairs Minister Bali Ram Bhagat was removed from the lineup.
Akali Dal Reaffirms Support for Barnala
The Akali Dal working committee declared full confidence in Chief Minister and party president Surjit Singh Barnala. Members expressed satisfaction with the Golden Temple complex’s liberation from extremists and separatists, executed per the Sarbat Khalsa directive. In a parallel session, the SGPC executive urged Akali unity to advance Panth interests and endorsed the resolution backing Barnala.
Advani Overhauls BJP Leadership
Bharatiya Janata Party president L.K. Advani restructured the national executive, injecting fresh younger talent by ousting established figures. The changes dropped three vice-presidents, four general secretaries, five secretaries, and three treasurers. Advani inducted a record 15 new members during a press conference announcement.
Nepal Voters Defy Boycott in Key Polls
Nepalese citizens eagerly participated in elections for a new national assembly, brushing aside boycott demands from banned political parties. Enthusiastic men and women cast ballots by stamping candidate symbols. Exactly 1,548 contenders competed for 112 seats in the 140-member unicameral body, while King Birendra planned to nominate the remaining 28 members.
