Iqbal Singh Lalpura
Gurdwara Nankana Sahib – Pakistan
Nankana Sahib, is the birthplace of the Sikh religion, as Guru Nanak was born here and was identified as an enlightened soul, not only by the midwife Daulatan but also by Rai Bular, the Muslim lord of the region. More indicators were seen when a serpentine shadowed his face, and the crops regrew even after cattle destroyed them, as has been narrated in the Janam Sakhis.
Lahore was the hometown of Guru Ram Das and to all the Sodhi Patshahs. The Khalsa established its Kingdom in the 18th century with Lahore as the capital. The Sikhs lost their legacy when Lahore and Nankana Sahib, along with many other historic Gurdwaras, went to Pakistan due to the post-Independence partition of the country.
A major reason for this tragedy was that we were not united. Some among us helped the British in annexing the Empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The conspiracies began while the Maharaja was alive and continued against his family even after his death. This was our attitude against the man who united the Sikhs to make a powerful Empire.
Later, the so-called Sikh princes were there to help the British snub all efforts to revive the Sikh religion and politics during the 19th and 20th centuries. The Khalsa National Party was a pro-British organization that opposed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.
We achieved nothing from this divided leadership. History does not record any benefits that have accrued to the Sikh faith and community by the efforts of the princes and royals of Punjab, either in post partition India or in Pakistan. They had nothing to say when we were compelled to forfeit Nankana Sahib and our capital, Lahore to a Muslim centric nation – Pakistan. Instead they were happy with the formation of a princely state PEPSU in the Indian portion of the divided Punjab which also had to be merged with the Punjab state later due to political and economic non-viability. After partition, we are again divided on lines of political parties, Deras, and sects.
For Sikhs, there is only one Guru, that is, Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Those who follow Him are Sikhs, so, we are expected to remain united under our Guru. Those who have taken Pahul are members of the army of Almighty God and are there to serve and protect humanity. This is again a very noble cause, an embodiment of a Devta (Angel), which Guru Nanak had preached.
After suffering the death of millions, rape, and insult, we did not take long to forget the loss. Instead of being united, we remained totally divided on all issues, including our language, which is Gurmukhi. It was not promoted even in states where Sikh princes had ruled.
We never thought of uniting to get the glow of freedom in independent India. In terms of political power, many Sikh leaders held the highest political office in the centre and states. There is nothing worth remembering about their contribution to the cause and aspirations of the Sikh community. The could not even propagate Gurmukhi as a necessary aspect of the Sikh and Punjabi civilisation.
From 1980 to 1995, Sikhs were set out to kill their own brethren under the garb of militancy and terrorism. Some were in uniform, and others were misguided or instigated by anti-India elements. Nobody came forward to tell them that there was a political conspiracy to kill them and win the next election. Even the religious and highest temporal authorities were silent spectators or were killed.
Today, Sikh have individually attained great heights in every sphere, and people are proud of their achievements, but, what can be discussed about their contribution for the promotion of our language, economy, and youth? How can the individual achievements be enjoyed by the Sikh community as a whole?
Punjab stands much behind where it was in 1947, and we have no plan to revive it to the stage of 1839, when it was the most peaceful, secure, secular, rich, world power. We have to get justice for the 1984 massacre victims; has anybody thought or planned for that? What about those widows who have to sleep out in the cold and extreme hot weather at the Delhi widow colony? What about jobs for their dependents? What about army deserters who deserted barracks on the call of politicians in 1984? about 309 of them are living without a pension. What about those who were illegally arrested and detained in Jodhpur and elsewhere after Operation Blue Star? Who will take up the case of the Gurdwaras outside Punjab? Can anybody tell on record that someone other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ever thought of giving justice to the Sikhs who were victims of genocide and promote Sikh religion and culture? Why can’t we get the benefit of his office?
Sikhs are going out of all three pillars of democracy, i.e., legislators, bureaucracy, and judiciary. Is anybody bothered about them? Is making a political statement about these issues to exploit Sikh sentiments enough, or do we need to unite and solve all these issues?
I appreciate and congratulate all the Sikh achievers in economic, social, political, education, science, banking, bureaucracy, defense services etc, but also request them all to unite and contribute for the development of our community and religion; otherwise, everything is perishable. If we want to leave a good legacy and name for our generation, then follow the wisdom in Shalok, “Naam Rahio Sadhu Rahio, Rahio Gur Govind. Kaho Nanak Eh Jagat Mein Ke Na Japeo Gurmant” (The name of the Lord is permanent, Saints are remembered, the Guru or those who have meditated on God are there to stay permanently). Ang 1429
Sikh achievers can significantly contribute to the community’s development through various means. Mentorship allows them to share experiences and guide young Sikhs in their personal and professional growth. Supporting Sikh institutions, charities, and initiatives promoting education, healthcare, and social welfare is crucial. Preserving and promoting Sikh heritage, language, and traditions through cultural events, educational programs, and digital platforms helps maintain the community identity.
Creating job opportunities, supporting Sikh-owned businesses, and investing in community development projects fosters economic empowerment. Engaging in volunteer work, supporting social causes, and participating in global initiatives demonstrates a commitment to social service. Leadership roles in Sikh institutions and community initiatives inspire others with vision and expertise. Establishing scholarships, supporting educational institutions, and promoting Sikh values and ethics ensures future success.
Fostering unity and cooperation among Sikhs and promoting collective progress, is vital. Raising awareness and understanding about Sikh issues and advocating for Sikh rights through dialogue, as Guru Nanak promoted – “Ros Na Keejai Utar Deejai” is essential. Role models of Sikh values, demonstrating compassion, honesty, and service would inspire others. Individual efforts have limited impact, but uniting for the community’s cause is the key.
Learning from other communities, like the Jewish community, and uniting for a common mission in a democratic setup, where everyone can choose their political party without criticizing others, can help achieve this goal. Let’s unite to create an International Singh Sabha, a collective platform for Sikh achievers to make a meaningful impact. Time is of the essence, so let’s act now to make this vision a reality.
(The author is Chairman, National Commission for Minorities, Government of India)
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