In a momentous step, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Singh declared to grant holy city status to Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo and Sri Anandpur Sahib, towns having takhts. Announcing it to the media on Monday, CM Mann stated that people have debated to give holy city status to them for decades, adding that they explained that Sikhism has five Takhts, three of which—Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda), and Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib which are located in the state of Punjab.
The Chief Minister said that the use of alcohol, meat, tobacco, and other substances would be prohibited in these cities to uphold the demands of devotees. “They not only reflect the religious institutions present in these towns but also the cultural heritage, hence this demand goes beyond any one political party, community, or faith; it is a vital step toward safeguarding and globally showcasing our cultural heritage, said CM Mann, adding that the government is moving towards the overall development of these cities while boosting religious tourism.
CM Mann and Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal emphasised that the revered Sikh Gurus have always championed ‘Sarbat da Bhala’, that is, the well-being of all. They noted that the martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of human rights. Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Singh Mann added that Guru Sahib personally acquired the land to establish Sri Anandpur Sahib, and that his only son, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, lived on this holy land for nearly three decades. They also claimed that this is the same sacred land where Guru Gobind Singh ji established the Khalsa Panth to fight against tyranny, oppression, injustice, and to defend the nation.
Previously, CM Mann moved the resolution in the Punjab Assembly, which received unanimous approval from the Vidhan Sabha. “An interfaith committee representing all religious institutions in these holy cities will be established, including members from every faith,” he said, while emphasising that the state government will make every decision for uplifting the religious tourism sector and make efforts towards cleanliness and security of the cities.
He stated that the state government will provide the required budget and also approach the Central Government for additional funds, emphasising that this is essential to preserve the legacy of these towns for future generations.
To pay homage to the 350th martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, CM Mann organised a series of events in commemoration. Adding this resolution to the events was truly a historic move. Additionally, CM Mann urged the people to follow the righteous path of humanity as propagated by Guru Sahib, and stated that the Ninth Sikh Guru exemplified secularism, unity, and universal brotherhood, noting that Guru Sahib’s life and teachings remain a guiding light for all humanity.
