Akal Takht Condemns Clash in Himachal Pradesh Over Bhindranwale Flags, Calls for Government Intervention
Akal Takht has taken serious note of a violent altercation in Himachal Pradesh between local residents and Sikh youth from Punjab. The clash was reportedly triggered by objections to flags featuring the image of Sant Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale displayed on their vehicles.
In response, Akal Takht officiating Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has instructed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to take up the issue with the Himachal Pradesh government. He also issued an advisory to Sikh youth, urging them to ensure that their vehicle documents are in order to avoid any legal complications and advising against traveling alone to Himachal Pradesh.
Incident Details
Jathedar Gargaj condemned the altercation, emphasizing that the local miscreants had no right to reprimand the Sikh youth or object to the flag bearing Sant Bhindranwale’s image, especially when the police were present to check their documents.
“It is unfortunate that this incident occurred in the presence of the local police. There was no justification for questioning the picture of Sant Bhindranwale,” he stated.
A video from Kullu has surfaced, showing local residents clashing with Punjabi youth over the flag. Reports also indicate that a similar violent altercation took place in Manikaran Valley over the same issue. Akal Takht recognizes Sant Bhindranwale as a ‘Qaumi Shaheed’ (community martyr), further intensifying the concerns surrounding the incident.
Call for Government Action
Jathedar Gargaj has urged Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu to personally intervene and direct the state police to ensure law and order. He expressed concerns that certain elements were attempting to disturb communal harmony between Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.
He called on the Himachal Pradesh government to take strict action against those instigating violence and to ensure the safety of all communities in the region.
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