Jammu, Dec 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha paid homage to the Sahibzades, Mata Gujri Ji, and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji during the ‘Vishesh Shaheedi Samagam’, a program organized by the ‘All Jammu Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee’ in honor of ‘Veer Baal Diwas’ at Gurdwara Digiana Ashram.
“The Sikh Gurus have offered extraordinary sacrifices for our nation. The history of India reflects the contributions of the Sikh community and its Gurus in awakening society and safeguarding its values,” stated the Lieutenant Governor.
He highlighted that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has initiated various measures to celebrate the heritage of the Sikh Gurus and reinstate their legacy.
The Sri Kartarpur Sahib corridor was established to facilitate easier pilgrimage, complemented by advanced infrastructure for devotees, he mentioned.
The Lieutenant Governor also noted that the government has ensured the FCRA registration of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, Sri Darbar Sahib, Punjab, thereby allowing the global Sikh Sangat to engage in sewa.
He expressed that the teachings of the revered Sikh Gurus continue to inspire society to progress along the paths of peace and development, reinforcing our dedication to Maa Bharti.
While addressing the attendees, the Lieutenant Governor urged the youth to draw lessons from history, honor the brave sacrifices of the Sahibzades, and uphold the legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
“The life and principles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji serve as a guiding light for our soldiers safeguarding our borders. This solemn occasion serves as a reminder for all of us to cherish national unity and strengthen our bonds of brotherhood,” he remarked.
He described the fundamental values imparted by the Sikh Gurus as encapsulating the invaluable spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, encouraging us to work towards a more powerful, progressive, and developed India.
“On ‘Veer Baal Diwas’, let us pledge to remind every segment of society about the supreme sacrifices made by Pujya Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, Mata Gujri, and the four Sahibzades,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor commended the significant contributions of the Sikh community toward the overall advancement of the nation, reiterating their commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous India.
He also addressed the government’s actions to address long-standing issues faced by the Sikh community, such as the installation of a statue of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur ji in Jammu, establishing the Guru Nanak Dev Ji Chair at Jammu University, implementing the Anand Marriage Act, and notifying related rules.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to promoting the Punjabi language, he mentioned that the curriculum for Punjabi Language is being developed for schools in the Jammu region.
Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor recognized the outstanding youth of the Sikh Community who have excelled in various fields.
Prominent figures present included Mahant Manjeet Singh, S. Ajit Singh, Chairman of All Jammu Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee, members of the Sikh Coordination Committee, and distinguished individuals from the Sikh community.
Dr. Narinder Singh Raina, MLA RS Pura Jammu South; Anand Jain, ADGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, along with senior officials from the Police and Civil administration, were also in attendance.