Punjab Outlook

Amritsar —Punjab BJP spokesperson and Sikh thinker Professor Sarchand Singh Khayala met Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Foreign Minister Dr. S. By writing a letter to Jaishankar, he has appealed to the New Zealand government to raise this issue at a diplomatic level, so that in the future, the continuity of religious events like Nagar Kirtan can be ensured, the religious rights of the Sikh community can be fully protected and a safe and cooperative environment can be provided for the entire Indian community, including Hindu-Sikhs. Along with this, a demand has also been made to stop the activities of radical and hateful elements who harm social harmony by applying ‘Haka’.
Prof. Khyala said that New Zealand, which is considered one of the most peaceful countries in the world, has deeply worried and angered the Sikh community by the “Destiny Group” led by Brian Tamaki, a well-known and controversial radical, to stop and disrupt the Nagar Kirtan organized by the Sikh community in the context of martyrdom days.
He said that targeting a religious event through hateful sloganeering and inflammatory banners is extremely sad and reprehensible. This incident is not only a blow to religious freedom, but also seriously questions the fundamental principles of multicultural social harmony and international religious tolerance. He said that such elements are trying to spread hatred towards migrant communities.
It is particularly noteworthy that even in this sensitive environment the Sikh community refrained from any kind of confrontation exhibiting unparalleled restraint, tolerance and peace. This conduct is a living example of the core teachings of Sikhism—“Sarbat da Bhala”, brotherhood and service to humanity.
Prof. Khayala said that Nagar Kirtan is a sacred, historic and globally recognized religious tradition of Sikhism, which is not limited to the Sikh community, but conveys the message of love, unity and peace to the entire society. From Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar to every country in the world where Sikhs reside, Nagar Kirtan symbolizes the peaceful identity of Sikhs.
He said that the Sikh community around the world has always respected local laws, cultures and social norms and has established its unique identity on the strength of hard work and honesty. Through langar, selfless service and the welfare of humanity, Sikhs have strengthened social harmony in every country and have always considered it their duty to come forward and serve in times of natural calamities.
In this context Prof. Khayala said that religious freedom, mutual respect and multi-cultural tolerance are the real hallmarks of any democratic and developed society. India, which has always guided peace to the world, should play its moral and diplomatic role in this matter too – this is the sentiment of the entire Sikh community. He expressed hope that the Government of India will take steps on this issue with sensitivity, seriousness and firmness.
He also appealed to the prominent Sikhs of New Zealand to adopt the path of dialogue and discussion with the government and those protesting elements who have no support from the local people in relation to this incident and find a solution to this issue in accordance with the spirit of the Guru’s teachings, so that the atmosphere of bitterness and confrontation can be avoided.
Prof. Khayala explained that the meaning of Nagar Kirtan is to pass through the city with reverence, love and respect while performing Kirtan on special religious occasions. Nagar Kirtan is a purely religious and Sikh propaganda medium, which includes sacred elements associated with the Sikh heritage such as Gataka, Gurbani Katha-Vichar, Dhadi and Kavishari traditions. These are neither the subject of any dispute nor should any kind of question mark be put on them.
He finally said that Nagar Kirtan is the flow of Akal Purusha’s success and fame, which while passing through the city fills the entire society with the colors of peace, love and unity. It is the collective responsibility of the Shiromani Committee and Sikh organizations to make the world aware of its message and purpose.