Mumbai, March 2: During a commemorative service for the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah called upon the Punjab government to address the issue of religious conversions in the state. Shah suggested that reported instances of conversion through allurement are a departure from the teachings of the ninth Sikh Guru, who gave his life to safeguard the right of individuals to practice their own faith.
The Home Minister affirmed that the sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur served as a foundational defense for the Hindu religion against historical persecution. “If the ninth Sikh Guru had not sacrificed his life to protect Hindus, there would have been no Hindus left in the world today,” Shah stated. He maintained that this legacy was later advanced by Guru Gobind Singh and continues to inspire the nation to face challenges with resilience.
Addressing the current administration in Punjab, Shah noted that it is the responsibility of the state to ensure that religious practices are not influenced by deceptive means. He asserted that the government and the community at large must initiate proactive steps to prevent conversions fueled by greed.
The event also served as a platform to honor the brave Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh, who Shah noted chose martyrdom over the abandonment of their beliefs. He stated that the influence of the ten Sikh Gurus remains essential in spreading knowledge and building an ideal society. Shah concluded by thanking the diverse communities in attendance and reminding the congregation of the importance of “Naam Japo” and “Kirat Karo” in daily life.
