Chandigarh, June 13  Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has emphasized the importance of collective efforts in celebrating Sikh history and centenaries, urging SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami to not approach these events through a political lens. Responding to Dhami’s recent remarks on the Punjab Government’s initiatives, Sandhwan reiterated that these celebrations are not about political parties but about honouring the unparalleled legacy of Sikhism. “The Sikh community’s history of sacrifice, selflessness, and universal goodwill belongs to all of humanity. It is our collective responsibility to share this legacy with the world. “This concerns Sikhism, not any political party,” said Sandhwan.

Punjab to Mark Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom and Amritsar’s 450th Year

The Punjab Government has announced its plans to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the 450th foundation day of Amritsar with events designed to highlight Sikh teachings and values on a global stage. Referring to the unique martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, Sandhwan urged using such historic events to inspire global awareness about Sikh values of selflessness and universal goodwill.Sandhwan also emphasized the importance of Shri Harmandir Sahib and Amritsar City as a symbol of global unity, welcoming people of all faiths. Responding to Dhami’s concerns about the government’s role in celebrating centenaries, Sandhwan noted that the government has undertaken such initiatives before. He cited instances of previous governments observing centenary events, including the ‘300 sala’ and 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Birth Anniversary celebration at Patna Sahib in collaboration with the Central Government.

Celebrations ; Speaker Urges SGPC to Focus on Sikh Unity, Not Politics

Addressing SGPC President Dhami, Sandhwan remarked, “You are the President of the SGPC, a representative body of the Sikh Panth, not a political leader of a certain party. Your role is to uphold the sanctity and heritage of Sikhism, not to create divisions.” The Speaker commended the Punjab Government’s inclusive approach of seeking suggestions from sangat, including the SGPC, to ensure meaningful and impactful celebrations. He urged SGPC President Dhami to provide constructive inputs rather than raising objections. Addressing the broader Sikh community, Sandhwan called for renewed commitment to upholding Sikh values and traditions. He expressed hope that constructive efforts from all sides would ensure that centenaries are celebrated with dignity. He also hopes these efforts will promote the universal message of Sikhism. “This is not a matter of political party lines. It is about Sikhism and its glorious heritage, which belongs to all of humanity. Let us work together to uphold and spread this message,” Sandhwan concluded.