In a powerful display of reverence and historical remembrance, the Punjab Legislative Assembly dedicated its one-day special session on Tuesday to honoring the supreme sacrifice of the four Sahibzadas, the sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh. The session, originally convened to discuss the replacement of the MGNREGA scheme, transformed into a solemn homage to Punjab's enduring legacy of resistance against oppression.
A Solemn Assembly Pays Tribute
Led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the house collectively remembered the unparalleled 'shaheedi' (martyrdom) of Baba Ajit Singh, Baba Jujhar Singh, Baba Zorawar Singh, and Baba Fateh Singh. The assembly also paid respects to Mata Gujri, Baba Jivan Singh, Baba Sangat Singh, and Diwan Todar Mal, figures integral to this chapter of Sikh history. The CM emphasized that these sacrifices impart a timeless lesson to society: to never submit to tyranny and to hold firm to one's principles.
CM Mann on the Eternal Message of Sacrifice
Participating actively in the discussion, Chief Minister Mann placed the sacrifices of the Sahibzadas on a global pedestal, stating they hold a unique place in the history of all humanity. "Though the Sahibzadas were martyred at a very young age, their supreme sacrifice inspires us even today not to bow before injustice or oppression by tyrannical rulers," he said. He noted that these acts of valor would continue to motivate future generations to stand firm against all forms of injustice.
Mann described standing by one's principles as the ultimate test for any individual, remarking that "walking on thorns was much easier than walking on values and ideologies." He highlighted the extraordinary fortitude of the younger Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri, who were confined in the 'Thanda Burj' during the harsh winter month of Poh, yet never wavered from the ideals taught by their family. "This is unparalleled in world history," he added.
Commemorating Legacy and Ensuring Devotee Comfort
The Chief Minister also connected this historical remembrance to contemporary governance, mentioning that the Punjab government had recently commemorated the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur with due dignity and extensive preparation. Shifting focus to the present, he detailed the state's efforts for the large gatherings expected during the Shaheedi Sabha.
Mann shared that the administration has implemented wide-ranging measures to cater to the lakhs of devotees arriving from across the world. The government's preparations encompass:
- Robust health facilities for any medical needs.
- Efficient transportation arrangements for smooth travel.
- Comprehensive sanitation drives to maintain cleanliness.
- Tight security protocols to ensure everyone's safety.
The goal, he stated, is to ensure that no devotee faces any inconvenience during their pilgrimage, thereby honoring the legacy of the martyrs through seamless service.
