Amit Shah and PM Modi Lead Tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur in Navi Mumbai
In a significant event held in Navi Mumbai to commemorate the 350th year of martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered powerful addresses, honoring the ninth Sikh guru's legacy of protecting freedom of belief and human dignity. The gathering, attended by top political and religious leaders, highlighted the guru's enduring impact on Indian society and announced several initiatives for the Sikh community.
Amit Shah's Address on Religious Freedom and Concerns
Amit Shah praised Guru Tegh Bahadur for inspiring generations to safeguard religious freedom and human dignity. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the Sangh Parivar and followers of Sanatan Dharma, stating that Hindus are safe today due to the guru's supreme sacrifice. Shah raised serious concerns over alleged religious conversions in Punjab, urging the state government to take action if such practices are occurring due to greed or inducements. He emphasized efforts to promote the guru's life and teachings across Maharashtra, ensuring his message reaches a wider audience.
PM Modi's Virtual Participation and Sikh Welfare Announcements
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who attended the Hind-di-Chadar event virtually, outlined key decisions by the Central government aimed at supporting the Sikh community. He listed measures to provide justice and financial relief for victims of the 1984 riots, including opening all related files to address past wrongs. Modi highlighted permissions granted for the Golden Temple in Amritsar to receive direct foreign funding and the inclusion of Sikhism's comprehensive history in academic textbooks. He also recalled the rescue of Sikhs and the Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan, amendments to the Citizenship Act for refugee citizenship, a relief package for migrants to Jammu and Kashmir, and the delisting of names from government blacklists.
State-Level Initiatives and Community Engagement
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the state will incorporate lessons on Guru Tegh Bahadur into school textbooks to educate the younger generation about his teachings. He also revealed plans to build a large hospital named after the guru in Navi Mumbai, enhancing healthcare services in the region. Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, along with numerous religious leaders from Sikh and allied communities, addressed the congregation, reinforcing the event's focus on unity and service. Modi emphasized the duty to serve Sikh brothers and sisters, noting that connecting the new generation to such values shapes a better future.
The event served as a platform to celebrate Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom while addressing contemporary issues and promoting community welfare through government and state-level actions.
