Why Did Punjab CM Oppose the Centre’s Cancellation of Sikh Pilgrimage to Pakistan?
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Synopsis
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann raises critical questions about the Centre's decision to cancel the Sikh pilgrimage to Pakistan. He argues that this move reflects a broader hostility towards Punjab and its people, highlighting contradictions in government policies regarding interactions with Pakistan. This article explores the implications of such decisions on cultural and religious practices.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann strongly opposes the Centre's cancellation of the Sikh pilgrimage.
- The decision reflects perceived bias against Punjab.
- Contradictions in the government's approach to cultural interactions are highlighted.
- Concerns regarding funding and support for Punjab are raised.
- The impact on the Sikh community's religious practices is significant.
Chandigarh, Sep 15 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, expressed strong disapproval regarding the Centre’s recent decision to halt the journey of Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan for the Parkash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev.
He remarked, “It’s perplexing to determine if the BJP’s stance is against Pakistan or its own citizens,” accusing the Modi government of harboring a hostile attitude towards Punjab.
Mann further pointed out, “If a Pakistani appears in a film made by a Punjabi artist, that film faces a ban from the Centre, and Punjabis are branded as traitors,” emphasizing that it is ultimately the Punjabi artists and the film industry that suffer due to this step-motherly treatment from the Centre.
He highlighted that the movie in question had been filmed prior to the Pahalgam terrorist incident, deeming the ban unjust, while noting that cricket matches between India and Pakistan proceed unhindered. He stated that the BJP’s online supporters label Punjabi actors and producers as traitors, yet they remain silent during these matches.
“Everyone understands how Pakistan utilizes the revenue generated from such matches, given its anti-India stance,” he added, questioning why pilgrims cannot travel to Sri Kartarpur Sahib and Sri Nankana Sahib to pay their respects if cricket matches are permissible.
Mann lamented that while the BJP-led national government hurriedly sends aid to Afghanistan during disasters, it has failed to release the rightful funds owed to Punjab amid devastating floods.
The Chief Minister accused the BJP of consistently holding a grievance against Punjab and its residents, noting that the Centre has not yet disbursed the Rs 1,600 crore pledged by the Prime Minister. He challenged Punjab BJP leaders, including state chief Sunil Jakhar and Union Minister Ravneet Bittu, to clarify why the Central government prevents the jathas from visiting Sri Kartarpur Sahib while allowing a cricket match with Pakistan to occur.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize that while political decisions are often steeped in complex narratives, the sentiments of the local population must be addressed. The ongoing tensions between state and central governance need careful navigation to ensure that cultural and spiritual practices are respected.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Centre's decision regarding the Sikh pilgrimage?
The Centre decided to cancel the Sikh pilgrimage to Pakistan on the occasion of Guru Nanak Dev's Parkash Purab.
What did Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann say about this decision?
He criticized the decision, claiming it shows a hostile attitude of the Modi government towards Punjab.
How did Mann compare the pilgrimage ban to cricket matches?
He highlighted that while cricket matches with Pakistan are allowed, the pilgrimage for Sikhs is not, questioning the consistency of government policies.
What funding issues did Mann mention?
He stated that the BJP-led central government has not released the Rs 1,600 crore promised to Punjab, especially during the floods.
What broader implications does this decision have?
Mann suggested that such decisions reflect a larger trend of discrimination against Punjab and its cultural practices.
