SAD Leader Calls for Parliamentary Tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur
Shiromani Akali Dal leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal made a significant appeal to the Union government and parliamentary floor leaders on Sunday, urging them to pay tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur on his 350th martyrdom anniversary. The veteran politician emphasized that honoring the ninth Sikh Guru would be a fitting recognition of his supreme sacrifice for religious freedom.
Parliament Session Should Commemorate Martyrdom
Speaking to media representatives on the eve of the Parliament session in Chandigarh, Badal articulated that starting the winter session by commemorating the Guru's sacrifice would demonstrate respect for his ideals. "It would be a fitting tribute to the great Guru if the winter session was started by commemorating the Guru's sacrifice and pledging to uphold his ideals," she stated during her press interaction.
The SAD leader expressed serious concerns about what she described as the weakening of India's federal structure through ill-conceived Bills and decisions. She specifically referenced the controversial decision regarding Chandigarh, which has been temporarily paused but not permanently withdrawn.
Federal Structure Under Threat
Badal questioned the government's approach, asking why the Chandigarh Bill was merely paused instead of being permanently halted. "Such proposals also served to weaken the federal structure and alienate States from the country," she asserted, highlighting the potential consequences for inter-state relations and national unity.
The Bathinda MP elaborated on several instances where she believes the central government has taken anti-Punjab decisions. She pointed to significant changes in the Bhakra Beas Management Board, which regulates the flow of Beas waters in the region. According to Badal, Punjab's control was severely diluted when rules were modified to permit nominations of members from any state, reducing Punjab's traditional influence over water management.
Historical Grievances and Recent Conflicts
Another contentious issue raised was the central government's decision to alter the character of Panjab University by reducing Punjab's influence over the institution and eliminating elections to its Senate. Although this decision was eventually reversed following sustained public agitation, Badal emphasized that such actions have alienated the Punjabi community and undermined state rights.
On the critical issue of national security, the SAD leader addressed the challenge of narco-terrorism, calling for more concerted efforts from the central government to effectively seal the country's borders. Her statement reflects ongoing concerns about cross-border security threats affecting Punjab and neighboring regions.
The MP's comprehensive statement comes at a crucial time when parliamentary proceedings are set to begin, putting spotlight on both historical commemorations and contemporary political tensions affecting federal-state relations in India.
