The pain of families affected by the 1984 anti-Sikh riots is our pain; the Sikh community’s struggle is an inspiration for all : Saini
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh–
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini said that the Sikh community is a courageous people who gave their lives to protect their faith, yet never bowed down. The suffering of families affected by the 1984 anti-Sikh riots is our suffering, and the community’s struggle is a source of inspiration for all, with their self-respect being paramount, he added.
Addressing members of the Sikh community from across the state during a programme held at Sant Kabir Kutir on Friday, he said that all Indians feel proud of the sacrifices and bravery of the Sikh community. Following the ideals and principles of the Gurus, they actively participated in the freedom struggle and, after independence, have continued to make significant sacrifices for the protection of the motherland.
Notably, the community came to meet the Chief Minister to express their gratitude to the government for passing a resolution during the monsoon session to provide government jobs to victims of the 1984 riots. As per the resolution, a provision was made to provide government jobs to one member of each of the 121 families who lost a member in the riots.
1984: A Dark Chapter in India’s Democratic and Humanitarian History
Saini said that the Sikh community’s spirit of service is globally recognized. Wherever humanity faces a crisis, they are among the first to help and protect. Yet, the very community that has given its lives for the nation and faith was brutally harmed in 1984. Those tragic days remain a dark chapter in India’s democratic and humanitarian history. Thousands of innocent Sikhs lost loved ones and homes in that violence, he said.
Concrete Measures for Justice and Recognition for Riot Victims
The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of PM Modi, the government resolved never to forget the tragedy of 1984. Along with taking concrete steps to ensure justice for victims, the state has also recognized their suffering. Special investigation commissions were set up, punishment for offenders expedited, and compensation schemes implemented. We are committed to ensuring no family is denied justice. In our state, no citizen will face discrimination based on caste, religion, language, or region, he emphasized.
Double Engine Government Worked with Respect and Dedication at Every Step
The Chief Minister highlighted that the Prime Minister has repeatedly expressed gratitude for the contributions of the Sikh community. Initiatives under the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ included celebrating the 400th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji nationwide, issuing a commemorative stamp and coin, and recognizing the martyrdom of Sahibzadas Jorawar Singh and Fateh Singh as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’. In Haryana, whether it was the 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the 350th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, or the inauguration of the Kartarpur Corridor, our double-engine government has acted with reverence and respect at every step, he said.
Naming Educational Institutions After the Gurus
Saini stated that in December 2022, the Haryana Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee was established, granting autonomy to the community. Land was allocated to Gurudwara Chilla Sahib in Sirsa, and the upcoming medical college in Yamunanagar will be named after Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Similarly, the college in Asandh will be named after Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the younger son of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
‘Swarn Jayanti Guru Darshan Yatra Scheme’ launched for Pilgrims
The Chief Minister said that the launch of the ‘Swarn Jayanti Guru Darshan Yatra Scheme’ to provide financial assistance to pilgrims from Haryana visiting Sri Hazur Sahib, Sri Nankana Sahib, Sri Hemkund Sahib, and Sri Patna Sahib.