Farmers Movement Archive

Agriculture laws resonate in Akal Takht message on ‘Bandi Chhor Divas’

Amritsar, November 15The agrarian crisis, caused by the newly enacted farm laws, was raised from the podium of Akal Takht during the “Bandi Chhor Divas” (Diwali) on November 14.Meanwhile, the Golden Temple complex was illuminated with LED lights and thousands of devotees flocked to the temple. The traditional fireworks display was a spectacular event. As the tradition goes, the Nihang Singh organisations presented the stunts on horses at Ranjit Avenue ground today.“Bandi Chhor Divas” (prisoner release day) is celebrated to mark the historical release of the sixth Sikh guru, Guru Hargobind, from the Mughal prison along with 52 kings in the early 17th century.In his customary “sandesh” (message), Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh said “black laws” were being enforced upon the common citizens and its opposition would be dealt with sternly by the governments(both Centre and state).“Around three centuries ago, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur had granted land ownership rights to farmers, but in present times, the same peasant class is fighting for their inherited rights. The entire Khalsa Panth should shield farmers, labourers and every deprived section of society to justify the Sikh philosophy in its true letter and spirit,” he said.SGPC president Gobind Singh Longowal condemned the Centre for imposing the ‘black laws’. He said it was against the Guru’s principle of “kirt”.Meanwhile, the ‘parallel’ acting Jathedar of Akal Takht, Dhyan Singh Mand, and his supporters were not allowed to enter the Golden Temple. Jarnail Singh Sakhira, an organiser, said the police didn’t allow them in, so the ‘message’ was read outside the shrine.

The Tribune

2020-11-16