Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always connected deeply with the Sikh community, one rooted in mutual respect, admiration, and shared values. His heartfelt gestures and unwavering commitment to their well-being have touched the hearts of Sikhs across India and the globe.
A testament to this special bond is the historic opening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor in 2019, a long-awaited dream of the Sikh community. This groundbreaking initiative has facilitated seamless access to the revered Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, enabling devotees from India to pay their respects without the hassle of visas and cross-border restrictions.
In another significant move, Prime Minister Modi designated December 26 as Veer Baal Diwas, a national day to commemorate the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas Zorawar Singh Ji and Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Professor Simrit Kaur, Principal of the Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), concurs that this recognition of their sacrifice has resonated deeply with the Sikh community, solidifying their sense of belonging and national pride. It is of great pride to her that young children have started asking questions to learn about the Sahibzadas and their immense sacrifices.
Next, the Prime Minister has taken decisive steps to enhance connectivity to Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara, a prominent Sikh pilgrimage site in the Himalayas. By prioritizing infrastructure development in the region, he has made it easier for devotees to undertake this arduous yet spiritually enriching journey. Sant Singh Chatwal, an NRI from the USA, seconds this as he has witnessed this journey becoming more comfortable and accessible now.
Further demonstrating his unwavering support, Prime Minister Modi has also played a pivotal role in the evacuation of Sikhs from Afghanistan. His swift and decisive actions ensured the safe passage of hundreds of Sikhs, showcasing his unwavering commitment to protecting the community's interests.
Beyond these specific initiatives, Prime Minister Modi has consistently championed the Sikh community's welfare. He has supported initiatives to preserve Sikh heritage and promote the Punjabi language and culture. His genuine empathy and understanding of Sikh aspirations have fostered a deep sense of trust and admiration among the community.
As a former judge of the Delhi High Court, Justice GS Sistani recalls, there is a little-known but enormously significant Lakhpat Sahib Gurdwara in Kutch, Gujarat, where Guru Nanak Dev Ji stayed twice during his travels. This Gurdwara was damaged during the Gujarat earthquake, and PM Modi led its restoration efforts to bring it back to glory.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unwavering commitment to the Sikh community has fostered a special bond of mutual respect and admiration. His initiatives have addressed their needs and reinforced their sense of belonging and national pride. The Sikh community, in turn, has wholeheartedly embraced Prime Minister Modi as a leader who values their contributions and protects their interests.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares a special bond with the Sikh community. Be it the opening of Kartarpur corridor, declaring Veer Baal Diwas, connectivity to Hemkund Sahib or the evacuation of Sikhs from Afghanistan, these are just a few examples of the several efforts he has… pic.twitter.com/CyetFnIVzZ
— Modi Story (@themodistory) November 27, 2023