Amritsar: A delegation from the Muslim organization Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind visited the Secretariat of Akal Takht Sahib on April 4 and met with Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, the officiating Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht.
During the meeting, discussions took place between the Muslim delegation and Jathedar Gargajj regarding Sikh-Muslim unity, mutual harmony and the challenges faced by both communities. The Muslim delegation stated that their organization has maintained long-standing relations with the supreme Sikh authority, Akal Takht Sahib, in order to foster ongoing unity between the communities and to resolve any issues that may arise through mutual dialogue and peaceful means.
The delegation assured the Jathedar that if any issues concerning the Sikh community are brought to their attention, the leaders of their organization will coordinate with Sikh representatives and take immediate and necessary action to resolve them in a way that maintains communal harmony. In return, the Jathedar also assured the Muslim delegation of similar cooperation from the Sikh side.
Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj stated that the beauty of this country lies in its communal harmony and shared values, which prevent divisive forces from succeeding. During the meeting, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind delegation also discussed matters related to the Waqf Board and other religious concerns.
Speaking to the media, Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargajj said that this country belongs to everyone and every community has the right to live here with happiness. He emphasized that no action should make any community feel that their rights are being taken away. He said that we should take inspiration from Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh, whose cabinet included representatives from various communities, all of whom were respected equally.
He further stated that the dignity and respect of all communities should be preserved and no one has the right to deprive anyone of their rights.
The Jathedar also expressed concern over the Bandi Singhs (Sikh political prisoners) who have been imprisoned for the past three decades without being released or heard. He questioned why, when it comes to suppressing minority rights, bills are passed swiftly, but where are the bills to protect minority rights? He reiterated that this country belongs to everyone, with its diverse cultures, religions, and languages, and all must be given equal respect and recognition.
The Muslim delegation included Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind’s General Secretary Maulana Hakimuddin Qasmi, Ovais Sultan Khan, Maulana Ali Hasan, Maulana Arif, Mufti Mehdi Hasan Aini, Maulana Javed Siddiqui and others.
