The government announced further liberalization of technology imports and several new schemes including one to promote computer software exports in its import-export policy for 1984-85. Commerce Minister VP Singh, who announced the government’s policy, said new priority areas for technology import have been identified and several capital goods have been brought under Open General Licence.
Move to power limit
A move is underway to introduce constitutional amendments to strip the courts of law of their right to intervene in matters relating to decisions of Parliament, State Assemblies and Councils. The issue is believed to have been discussed in detail at a meeting of opposition leaders convened by Speaker Balram Jakhar at Parliament House.
Blockade of Sri Lanka
Several members of the opposition and the ruling party expressed concern in the Lok Sabha over the Sri Lankan authorities’ decision to impose a naval blockade and demanded a statement from the government. While Era Anbarasu (Congress-I) said the Sri Lankan Navy had invaded Indian territorial waters, Satyasadan Chakraborty (CPM) urged the government to make a statement in the House of Representatives explaining its stand.
Aircraft misconduct
The “Adika episode” rocked the Maharashtra assembly when KN Deshmukh (PWP) demanded the resignation of minister Vasantrao Patil. The opposition initiated four requests for adjournment in the Parliament due to the alleged bad behavior of Deputy Chief Minister Ramrao Adik towards flight attendants, hotel maids and a taxi driver on an Air India plane and in Frankfurt.