Punjab Newsline | Batala
A special religious congregation dedicated to the 38th Guru Gaddi Diwas of Sant Trilochan Das Ji Maharaj was held in Batala on Wednesday, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann attending the event as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the soil of Punjab does not allow the seed of hatred to grow. “Punjab’s land is very fertile — it grows pulses, maize and wheat, but the seed of hatred can never grow here,” he said.
Emphasising communal harmony, Mann stated that festivals like Ram Navami, Gurpurab, Hanuman Jayanti and Eid belong to everyone equally. He described Punjab as a bouquet where every religion adds its own fragrance.
During the event, the Chief Minister paid obeisance at the feet of the saints and prayed for peace, harmony and prosperity in the state. A large number of devotees from across India and abroad gathered to seek the blessings of Guru Maharaj on the auspicious occasion.
CM Mann also praised the teachings of Sant Trilochan Das Ji Maharaj, saying that the saint’s path of humanity and selfless service continues to inspire people towards brotherhood, morality and social unity.
Mann expressed concern over the growing trend of youth moving abroad, saying that Punjab does not need to become London, Paris, or California. Instead, he said the state should regain its “happy and vibrant old Punjab” spirit.
Service to Humanity Is the Greatest Duty
The Chief Minister urged people to help the needy and spread humanity in society. Sharing an inspiring story of a fakir and a horse, he said trust, compassion, and service are the greatest strengths of any community. He appealed to citizens to stand with underprivileged people and support those in need.
Drug Menace Must Become a People’s Movement
Speaking on the issue of drugs, Mann said the Punjab government is continuously running campaigns against drug abuse. He stressed that the fight against drugs cannot be won by the government or police alone and must become a mass movement involving every section of society. He claimed Punjab is moving rapidly towards becoming drug-free.
Punjab Has Always Stood With the Nation
Highlighting the bravery and patriotism of Punjabis, the Chief Minister said Punjab has always stood with the country during every crisis — whether during the Green Revolution, border security, or India’s freedom struggle. Referring to Bhagat Singh, he urged the youth to draw inspiration from the revolutionary martyr’s life and ideals.
Welfare Schemes Funded by Public Taxes
Talking about government welfare schemes, Mann said the Punjab government is providing free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for citizens. He stated that tax money collected from the public should be spent on public welfare and called it the government’s duty, not a favor. He added that the government has not “installed a money-printing machine in Chandigarh,” emphasizing responsible use of public funds.
Life Imprisonment for Sacrilege Cases
On incidents of sacrilege involving religious scriptures, the Chief Minister said the government has introduced a strict law under which guilty individuals could face life imprisonment. He said protecting the dignity and sanctity of Guru Granth Sahib is the responsibility of the government.
