History shows that senior partner in Punjab ruling combine has always profited whenever it has taken to the streets. Today, holding his first press conference after being anointed SAD (B) chief, Sukhbir announced that his party and the BJP would jointly organise a rally in New Delhi on February 22 to protest against the Centre's "indifferent attitude" towards the state.

Along with Punjab BJP chief Rajinder Bhandari, Sukhbir said the rally would press the Union government to waive all outstanding debts on Punjab farmers.

"The farm sector in Punjab, which contributes 65 per cent to the nation's total foodgrains kitty, is facing a severe crisis because our farmers have been neglected by the Centre. The Union government must immediately announce a financial package for farmers," Sukhbir demanded.

The two other issues that will be raised at the rally are extension of package of tax benefits to the industry in Punjab and putting an end to alleged interference by the Congress in the religious affairs of the Sikhs.

"Since the package was announced for other states, there has been a flight of industry from Punjab. This is reflected in sharp decline in central sales tax collection from 2003-04 to 2006-07," said Bhandari.

To a question, Sukhbir said the SAD-BJP government was shortly going to file a writ in the Supreme Court, challenging the legal validity of the concessions.

He also claimed that no government property was being sold as reported in newspapers. "We are only turning unproductive government assets into productive ones," Sukhbir asserted.