In a landmark decision that marks a significant moment for religious conservation in Punjab, the state assembly has officially designated three prominent locations as holy cities with strict prohibitions on certain activities.
Historic Declaration During Special Session
The Punjab Assembly made history on Monday by unanimously passing a resolution that declares Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar district, Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda, and the Galiara area surrounding the Golden Temple in Amritsar as officially recognized holy cities. This momentous decision came during a special session convened to honor the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
In an unprecedented move, this marked the first time the Punjab Vidhan Sabha session was held outside the state capital of Chandigarh. The special assembly gathered at the Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial Park, which was temporarily designated as the official assembly venue for this historic occasion.
Complete Ban on Liquor, Meat and Tobacco
According to the resolution moved by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the newly designated holy cities will see a complete prohibition on the sale and consumption of liquor, meat, and tobacco products. This sweeping ban aims to preserve the sanctity of these spiritually significant locations and maintain their religious atmosphere.
The resolution forms part of the Punjab government's extensive commemorative events scheduled from November 23-25 to honor the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Sikh Guru. The state has organized a series of programs including Nagar Kirtans, Kirtan Darbars, light and sound shows, drone displays, and an interfaith conference known as Sarv Dharam Sammelan.
Tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur's Legacy
The assembly passed another significant resolution urging citizens to draw inspiration from Guru Tegh Bahadur's life and teachings to work toward the welfare and prosperity of Punjab's people while promoting peace, tolerance, and harmony in society.
Education Minister and local MLA Harjot Singh Bains, who moved the second resolution, revealed that school students across Punjab are taught about the Guru's history during morning assemblies. Additionally, seminars dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur have been organized in all colleges and universities throughout the state.
During the discussion, BSP MLA Nachhatar Pal hailed the ninth Sikh Guru's supreme sacrifice and demanded that Rupnagar district be renamed after Guru Tegh Bahadur or changed to Anandpur Sahib to better reflect its spiritual significance.
Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa spoke about Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacrifice as a moving testament to his unwavering commitment to religious freedom and human dignity. Bajwa also raised critical state issues including Chandigarh's status, Panjab University, pending rural development funds, and water sharing agreements.
In remarks that appeared to target the BJP-led central government, Bajwa expressed concerns about attempts to rewrite history and test Punjab's patience. He emphasized the need for Punjabis to unite despite political differences to protect their rights and preserve Punjabiyat.
The session concluded with the House resolving to continue promoting values of secularism, universal brotherhood, and human rights as exemplified by Guru Tegh Bahadur, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
