On Bandi Chhor Divas, Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar demands release of Bandi Singhs; issues message for Sikh community
PTC Web Desk: On the occasion of Bandi Chhor Divas, Sri Akal Takht Sahib’s acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj extended warm greetings to the Sikh community and issued an emotional appeal emphasising unity, justice, and faith.
Delivering his message from Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the acting Jathedar reaffirmed that “Gurdwaras and Takht Sahibs belong to the Panth and will always remain under the Panth’s authority.” He urged the Sikh community worldwide to uphold the spirit of Bandi Chhor Divas by remembering the sacrifices of Sikh Gurus and martyrs who stood firm for religious freedom and justice.
Referring to the Bandi Singhs (Sikh political prisoners) lodged in various jails, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj demanded their immediate release, noting that several prisoners, including Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara, Balwant Singh Rajoana, Gurdeep Singh Khera, Tara Singh, and Davinder Pal Singh Bhullar, have already completed their sentences.
He appealed to the entire Sikh Panth to collectively perform Ardas (prayers) in every gurdwara for their release, calling it a moral and spiritual duty of the community. He specifically urged that Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana’s death sentence be commuted to life imprisonment and that he too be released at the earliest.
The Jathedar also drew attention to rising concerns about sacrilege incidents, emphasising that security arrangements at all gurdwaras must be made stronger and more organised. He directed gurdwara management committees to ensure round-the-clock vigilance and proper security to protect the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Reflecting on Sikh history, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj reminded the community that Bandi Chhor Divas is not merely a celebration but a symbol of freedom, resilience, and spiritual strength, values rooted in the teachings of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Sri Akal Takht Sahib’s acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, in his message to the Sikh community, urged all Sikhs to set aside internal differences and unite for the progress and spiritual strength (Chardi Kala) of Panth. Emphasising the inclusive spirit of Sikhism, he appealed that no person, irrespective of their religion, should ever be stopped from entering a gurdwara. The Jathedar further reiterated the timeless Sikh principle that, “Those who come in humility are offered Deg (food), and those who come with aggression are met with Teg (the sword).”
Concluding his message, he said the day should inspire every Sikh to stand united for truth, justice, and the dignity of the Panth.
- PTC NEWS
