KD NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Dec 26: On the solemn occasion of Veer Baal Diwas, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, on Thursday paid rich tributes to the Sahibzades, Mata Gujri Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, remembering their unparalleled bravery, supreme sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the ideals of righteousness, courage and service to humanity.
Addressing a Vishesh Shaheedi Samagam titled ‘Safar-E-Shahadat’, organised by the All Jammu Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee at Gurdwara Digiana Ashram, the Lieutenant Governor said that the lives and teachings of the Sahibzades, Mata Gujri Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji continue to inspire generations and serve as a moral compass for all citizens.
“We remember the Sahibzades’ unmatched bravery, sacrifice and courage, and the steadfast commitment of Mata Gujri Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Their lives and teachings are a source of eternal inspiration for the entire nation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Highlighting the immense contribution of the Sikh Gurus to India’s spiritual and social fabric, Shri Manoj Sinha said that their supreme sacrifices inspire every Indian to uphold the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation.
“It should be our sincere endeavour to build a prosperous country that is united and strong in its diversity,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor said that the Sikh tradition, deeply rooted in devotion, valour and selfless service, truly reflects the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. He observed that the path of righteousness shown by the Sikh Gurus forms the foundational strength of modern India’s inclusive and equitable development.
“The legacy of the Sikh Gurus continues to empower those who are working tirelessly on the frontlines of nation-building, ensuring justice, equality and dignity for all,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor further noted that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, historic and long-overdue steps have been taken to honour the legacy of the Sikh Gurus and to preserve and promote Sikh heritage across the country.
He recalled that justice was ensured to the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and pointed out that the grant of FCRA approval to Sri Harmandir Sahib has enabled the global Sangat to actively participate in seva at the holy shrine. He also highlighted landmark initiatives such as the opening of the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, rejuvenation of the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, and the promotion of academic research into the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
“These historic measures have ensured that the Gurus’ timeless message of universal brotherhood, compassion and harmony remains a guiding force for India’s future,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Paying tribute to the Sikh community, Shri Manoj Sinha lauded their historic role in nation-building and their relentless efforts to eradicate social discrimination and inequality. He urged citizens to honour the sacrifices of the revered Sikh Gurus by building a society anchored in unity, harmony and progress.
“There has been a new dynamism in our country. Let us resolve today to stand together and remain firm in our collective determination to build the Viksit Bharat of our dreams,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also remembered the martyrdom of Baba Moti Ram Mehra and his family, describing their sacrifice as a shining example of human compassion, courage and unwavering loyalty.
Members of the All Jammu Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for addressing several long-pending demands of the Sikh community. On the occasion, S. Ajit Singh, Chairman of the Committee, demanded that Veer Baal Diwas be renamed as “Sahibzade Shahadat Diwas”. The Lieutenant Governor assured the delegation that the memorandum would be forwarded to the Government of India for due consideration.
In a symbolic gesture celebrating Sikh traditions and legal recognition, the Lieutenant Governor also felicitated a newly married Sikh couple whose marriage was registered under the Anand Marriage Act in the Union Territory.
Among those present on the occasion were Mahant Manjeet Singh; S. Ajit Singh, Chairman, All Jammu Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee; members of the Sikh Coordination Committee; and prominent members of the Sikh community.
Also present were Dr Narinder Singh Raina, MLA RS Pura Jammu South; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; and senior officers of the police and civil administration.
