Sri Amritsar- Officiating Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, strongly condemned the Punjab Government’s decision to extend the detention of Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh, by another year under the National Security Act (NSA). Jathedar Gargajj termed this act a misuse of law, stating that if the government can treat an elected representative this way, then what can be expected in the case of ordinary citizens?
Today, in relation to this issue, Amritpal Singh’s uncle, Sukhchain Singh, along with other personalities, met Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargajj at the Secretariat. The Jathedar said that both the Punjab and Centre governments should respect the sentiments of the people of Punjab and immediately withdraw the NSA action against the elected representative.
He further stated that when Sikhs demand that strict and specific laws be made to prevent the ongoing desecration incidents of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the governments do not show any seriousness towards this sensitive matter. However, when it comes to suppressing Sikhs, draconian laws like the NSA are misused to imprison them for extended periods. He added that such actions in a democratic system are a gross violation of human rights.
Jathedar Gargajj also called upon all Panthic (Sikh religious) organizations and political parties to unite and collectively address this issue and the case of Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana, along with all Bandi Singhs (Sikh political prisoners). He said that there is division within the Sikh community today, and unless we abandon our separate paths and unite under one Nishan Sahib (the Sikh flag), such losses will continue.
He further said that as we commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Teg Bahadar, it is the duty of all of us to stand united against the violation of human rights, following the teachings of the Guru. He also mentioned that certain recent incidents, occurring under fraternal conflict, have harmed unity within the community, which in turn has benefited anti-Panthic forces.