Bandi Chhor Diwas: Akal Takht jathedar bats for Panthic unity
Says even economic issues of state are being termed as Sikh issues by a section of people
AMRITSAR : Acting Akal Takht jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh on Sunday called for Panthic unity, saying the community is facing many challenges such as a non-conducive environment for Punjabi language in Punjab, the government’s non-seriousness in releasing Sikh prisoners permanently and a deterioration of environment in the state.
Delivering the customary ‘sandesh’ (message) from the darshani deori (entrance to sanctum sanctorum) of the Golden Temple on the occasion of Bandi Chhor Diwas (Diwali), the jathedar said, “Following the teachings of Gurbani, we all should sit together to reach an understanding. The Panthic organisations should bury differences and shun infighting for interests and betterment of the community. They should focus as how to tackle the challenges.
Also, we should not indulge in false propaganda against each other and face constructive criticism.”
“Non-sikh sections in Punjab are being a mute spectator to economic problems faced by the state by terming them as Sikh issues. Therefore, the Sikh Panth needs to tackle these problems with unity and mutual understanding,” he added.
Unlike previous year, no slogans were raised against the jathedar on the occasion.
Takht Kesgarh Sahib jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Gobind Singh Longowal also addressed the sangat. As per tradition, heads of nihang organisations were also honoured.