JAMMU, Oct 13: Sikh United Front J&K Chairman S. Sudarshan Singh Wazir, along with representatives of various Sikh organisations, on Tuesday strongly condemned the alleged misconduct by Delhi Police personnel at Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, raising concerns over the sanctity of the religious shrine, Sikh traditions and constitutional rights.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Wazir alleged that police personnel entered the sacred premises without covering their heads and while wearing shoes, which he described as a violation of the religious decorum and maryada observed in a gurdwara. He stressed that all authorities must respect the traditions and sanctity of places of worship.
Questioning the manner in which constitutional values were being upheld, Wazir said the Constitution of India belonged to every citizen and could not be treated as the property of any political party or individual. He highlighted the sacrifices made by the Sikh community during India’s freedom struggle and its historic role in defending religious freedom, national unity and the rights of the oppressed.
Wazir also alleged that the police action in Delhi showed disregard for the dignity and rights of people from different sections of society, including women, young girls, journalists and lawyers. He called for respect for individual rights and due process of law.
Recalling the sacrifices of Sikh Gurus and the community in protecting people of different faiths, he said any attempt to undermine Sikh religious traditions, Sikh maryada or constitutional principles would be opposed, irrespective of the political party involved.
The Sikh leaders also raised concerns over the status of the Punjabi language in Jammu and Kashmir. Wazir alleged that the Punjabi-speaking community was facing discriminatory treatment and urged the authorities to safeguard its linguistic rights and cultural identity.
He emphasised that Punjabi formed an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage and that the contributions of the Punjabi-speaking population and the Sikh community to the nation deserved recognition and respect.
Among those present were S. Darbinder Singh, President, Shiromani Akali Dal J&K; S. Mohinder Singh of Bhai Kanhaiya Nishkam Sewa Society; S. Rajinder Singh, S. Ravinder Singh, S. Kulwant Singh Khajuria, S. Charan Singh Bali, S. Charanjeet Singh, S. Paramjeet Singh Raina, Kuldeep Kour, S. Surinder Singh Dutt, S. Surjeet Singh Kukoo, S. Manmohan Singh, Prof. Yudhvir Singh, S. Jagmohan Singh and other Sikh community representatives.