Chandigarh: In a deeply felt and assertive statement, Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan responded to recent objections raised by SGPC President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami regarding the Punjab government’s involvement in organizing official celebrations of Sikh centenaries and historical religious events.
Sandhwan strongly asserted that Sikh history such as the birth anniversary of Baba Budha Ji, the first Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib, and the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib belongs to all of humanity, not to any single institution or political party. He reminded that similar centenaries were officially commemorated in 1975 and 1999 under previous governments with the active cooperation of both state and central institutions.
“The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib is not only a spiritual milestone but a globally significant event a sacrifice made for humanity and religious freedom,” said Sandhwan.
He added that the essence of Sikhism, from the time of Baba Budha Ji to the present day, has spread across the world through acts of service (seva), community kitchens (langar), the compassion of Bhai Ghanaiya Ji, and Guru Nanak Sahib’s universal message. Addressing Dhami’s criticism, Sandhwan urged the SGPC leadership to rise above political affiliations and instead focus on protecting Sikh identity, which he warned is under internal threat—with some leaders even distancing themselves from the name “Singh”.
He emphasized that the spirit of Sikhism rooted in sacrifice, service, and collective unity was built through joint efforts and should be respected through cooperation, not division. “We must come together to carry Baba Nanak’s message to the world. This is about the Sikh faith, not party politics,” Sandhwan said, also thanking the Punjab government for seeking inclusive suggestions from all communities during the planning of such events.
He concluded by calling for collective introspection and dialogue on how Sikh milestones should be celebrated with due reverence, reminding everyone that Sri Harmandir Sahib stands as a beacon of unity, open to all faiths, and that the city surrounding it is preparing for a historic celebration next year.
