In a historic and moving session held in Anandpur Sahib, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha unanimously passed an official resolution paying glorious tribute to the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, on his 350th martyrdom anniversary. The one-day special session, held on Monday, was dedicated to commemorating the Guru's unparalleled sacrifice for the fundamental rights and religious freedom of all people.
A Unanimous Tribute in the Assembly
Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains tabled the official resolution, which was passed with unanimous support from the house. While addressing the assembly, Minister Bains articulated the profound and enduring national significance of the Guru's martyrdom. He stated that the sacrifice by the ninth Guru fundamentally shaped India's secular fabric.
Bains powerfully remarked, "The very map and secular fabric of our nation would have been different if Guru Tegh Bahadur did not lay down his life for the protection of religion and faith. The Guru sahib ji stood as an unyielding wall against the religious tyranny of that time." During his address, he also remembered Guru Tegh Bahadur's devoted Sikhs—Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala—who shared in his supreme sacrifice.
Chief Minister's Commitment to Commemoration
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the government's full commitment to honoring this pivotal moment in history. He assured that there was no shortage of budget for such commemorative events.
Mann expressed his desire for the entire world to learn about the rich religion and culture of Punjab. Addressing logistical concerns, he said, "Some had doubts how the Assembly session will be held outside Chandigarh but everything worked out. We pray that the events turn out as planned." The session in Anandpur Sahib itself was a testament to the government's dedication to taking the legislature to the people.
Legacy of Sacrifice and Secularism
The 350th martyrdom anniversary is not just a religious observance but a event of deep national importance. Guru Tegh Bahadur's execution in 1675, for standing up against forced religious conversions, is widely regarded as a definitive moment that helped cement the principle of religious freedom in the Indian subcontinent.
The commemorative events, including a special light-and-sound show, are designed to educate current and future generations about this timeless lesson in courage and conviction. The Punjab government's resolution ensures that the Guru's message of protecting the rights of all communities, regardless of faith, continues to resonate through the ages.
