JAMMU, Today S. Balvinder Singh President, BJP POJK Refugee Cell, Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory, has expressed deep concern over recent incidents involving members of the Sikh community in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. He stated that such incidents are unfortunate and have created anxiety among Sikhs across the country.
Referring to the recent incident near Shri Hemkund Sahib, Soodan said that the matter has caused widespread concern among Sikh devotees and pilgrims. He emphasized that Shri Hemkund Sahib is one of the holiest Sikh shrines associated with the penance of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and attracts thousands of devotees every year from across India and abroad.
Soodan appealed to the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah and the concerned state governments to ensure adequate security arrangements during the Shri Hemkund Sahib Yatra. He pointed out that during the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra, comprehensive security arrangements are made from Lakhanpur to the Holy Cave Shrine to ensure the safety of pilgrims. Similar arrangements, he said, should also be implemented along the Hemkund Sahib Yatra route, particularly at sensitive locations, to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain peace and harmony.
He further stated that any tension or misunderstanding between local residents and Sikh pilgrims must be addressed promptly through effective administrative intervention. “The historic bond of brotherhood between Sikhs and Hindus is strong and should not be allowed to be disturbed by isolated incidents or anti-social elements,” he said.
Expressing concern over reports of attacks on Sikh individuals in Himachal Pradesh, Soodan urged the state government to take effective measures to ensure the safety and security of Punjabis, especially members of the Sikh community residing in or visiting the state. He stressed that any acts of violence, intimidation, or targeted attacks should be dealt with firmly and impartially, and strict action should be taken against those responsible.
Soodan also referred to a recent video from Uttar Pradesh allegedly showing the assault of a Sikh youth, stating that such incidents cause pain and concern among the Sikh community. He called for fair investigations and appropriate action by the authorities to ensure justice.
“The Sikh community has always stood for national unity, peace, and communal harmony. Our objective is not to create divisions but to strengthen the spirit of brotherhood, mutual respect, and national integration. We want every devotee and pilgrim to be able to visit religious places without fear and in a peaceful environment,” Soodan said.
He expressed confidence that the Government of India and the concerned state administrations would take all necessary steps to maintain law and order, protect communal harmony, and uphold the rights and security of all citizens.
By ZorawarSingh Sunderbani 94191 31723
