SAD Leader Condemns Police Action at Samana Dharam Yudh Morcha Protest
In a strong statement from Patiala, Surjit Singh Rakhra, a prominent leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit), has expressed deep concern over the recent police action against members of the Sangat and farmer leaders during the Dharam Yudh Morcha in Samana. Rakhra described the incident as highly unfortunate, emphasizing that the protest was organized to support Gurjit Singh Khalsa, who has been staging a unique demonstration by sitting atop a 400-foot-high tower for the past 16 months.
Criticism of Force Against Peaceful Protesters
Rakhra argued that the use of force against the peaceful Sangat, which gathered to press what he termed a legitimate demand, directly contradicts democratic principles and fundamental human rights. He stressed that the protest was aimed at advocating for the enactment of strict laws to prevent the sacrilege of religious scriptures, a cause he believes is fully justified given its connection to deep-seated religious sentiments.
Appeal for Dialogue and Legislative Action
In his appeal, Rakhra urged the Punjab government to abandon coercive tactics and instead adopt a path of constructive dialogue to resolve the issue promptly and sensitively. He highlighted that respecting the religious sentiments of the people is not only a constitutional obligation but also a moral responsibility for any government. Rakhra reiterated his demand for the immediate enactment of stringent laws against those involved in the desecration of religious scriptures, calling on the administration to refrain from using any form of force against the peaceful protesters.
Background and Previous Support
Rakhra had previously visited the dharna site in Samana several months ago, alongside Giani Harpreet Singh, president of Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit), to meet Bhai Gurjit Singh Khalsa Ji. During that visit, he extended his support to the Dharam Yudh Morcha, reinforcing the demand for legislative action to protect all religious scriptures from sacrilege. This ongoing protest, centered on a 400-foot-high tower, has drawn attention to the need for legal safeguards in Punjab.
The situation underscores the tension between protest movements and state responses in the region, with Rakhra's comments adding to the broader discourse on governance, religious rights, and democratic freedoms in Punjab.
