JAMMU, Nov 2: Shaheed Kissan Baba Jitto Sangharsh Samiti on Sunday launched a Sankalp Patra distribution campaign from the sacred Devsthan of Baba Jitto Ji and Bua Kodi Ji at Jhiri, seeking greater historical, cultural and official recognition for the two revered personalities.
On the occasion, Committee President Partap Singh Jamwal, accompanied by other office-bearers, visited the Devsthan and placed the Sankalp Patra at the feet of Baba Jitto Ji before seeking blessings for the success of the campaign.
Following traditional prayers and rituals performed by the temple priests, the committee formally launched the distribution campaign with the objective of taking its demands to the general public.
Reaffirming their commitment, committee members said that the movement would continue until Baba Jitto Ji and Bua Kodi Ji receive the recognition and honour they deserve. They expressed hope that the government would intervene and take concrete steps to fulfil their demands.
The Sankalp Patra outlines several key demands, including naming an agricultural university after Baba Jitto Ji, incorporating his history into school textbooks and installing an official signboard identifying the Baba Jitto Indoor Stadium established at Jhiri Devsthan.
The committee has also sought appropriate recognition for Baba Jitto Ji and Bua Kodi Ji at the state level and in the historical narrative of the region.
Speaking on the occasion, Partap Singh Jamwal questioned the delay in granting Baba Jitto Ji his rightful recognition. He said that when schools, parks and government buildings were being named after martyrs and prominent historical personalities, there should be no hesitation in honouring Baba Jitto Ji.
Describing him as an immortal historical personality of the 15th century, Jamwal said that Baba Jitto Ji sacrificed his life while fighting against injustice and standing up for the rights of farmers. His life and supreme sacrifice, he added, continue to inspire generations.
He said Baba Jitto Ji is revered across North India and other parts of the country as a saint and a symbol of farmers’ rights. Considering his historical contribution, sacrifice and the faith of millions of devotees, the government should take appropriate steps to honour both Baba Jitto Ji and Bua Kodi Ji.
Jamwal also urged the government to protect the dignity and sanctity of the upcoming Jhiri Mela, describing it as one of the major religious and cultural gatherings of North India.
He said the annual fair represents the historical, religious and cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir and attracts lakhs of devotees from different parts of the country. However, he expressed concern over the lack of adequate infrastructure and facilities for visitors at the ground level.
He called for a comprehensive development plan for Jhiri Devsthan, including improved infrastructure, better facilities for devotees and preservation of its historical and religious heritage.
He further observed that the annual mela contributes significantly to the local economy while promoting cultural exchange, brotherhood and social harmony among people from different regions.
Appealing to the local MLA and other elected representatives of adjoining areas, Jamwal urged them to strongly raise these demands before the government and work towards protecting Jammu’s historical heritage and cultural identity.
The committee announced that the Sankalp Patra distribution campaign, which began at Jhiri Devsthan, would now be extended to every household to generate wider public support.
Those present included Surinder Singh Gilli, Founder YRS and BJP leader; Shanker Chib, President JKKEM; Garu Sharma; S. Gurjet Singh; Neeraj Langeh; Naryan Sharma; Aman Sharma; Th. Dev Karan Singh; S. Sukhvinder Singh; Deepan Seekay and others.