Punjab CM Mann Leads Shukrana Yatra from Sri Anandpur Sahib
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday led the Shukrana Yatra from Sri Anandpur Sahib, a day after the state government implemented the anti-beadbi law. The yatra, which began from the historic Gurudwara Sri Keshgarh Sahib, was held to express gratitude to the Sikh community for their support in the implementation of the law that aims to prevent the desecration of religious scriptures.
Significance of the Shukrana Yatra
The Shukrana Yatra, meaning a journey of gratitude, was organized to thank the Sikh sangat for their cooperation and blessings. CM Mann, along with other party leaders and supporters, walked from Sri Anandpur Sahib to the state capital Chandigarh, covering a distance of about 100 kilometers. The yatra passed through several towns and villages, where the chief minister interacted with the public and addressed gatherings.
During the yatra, Mann emphasized the importance of the anti-beadbi law, which makes the desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib and other religious texts a non-bailable offense with stringent punishment. He said that the law was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community and that his government had fulfilled its promise.
Details of the Anti-Beadbi Law
The Punjab government had passed the anti-beadbi law in the state assembly earlier this year, and it received the governor's assent recently. The law provides for imprisonment of up to life term for those found guilty of desecrating the Guru Granth Sahib or other religious scriptures. It also includes provisions for the preservation and protection of religious places and texts.
CM Mann stated that the law would act as a deterrent against any attempts to hurt the religious sentiments of the Sikh community. He also urged the people to remain vigilant and report any incidents of beadbi to the authorities.
Political Reactions
The yatra has drawn mixed reactions from political parties. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) criticized the move, calling it a political stunt ahead of the upcoming elections. However, supporters of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) hailed the yatra as a historic event that demonstrated the government's commitment to Sikh religious sentiments.
Security arrangements were tight along the route, with police personnel deployed at various points to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra. The chief minister's convoy was also accompanied by a heavy security cover.
The Shukrana Yatra is expected to conclude in Chandigarh, where CM Mann will address a public meeting at the party headquarters. The event is seen as a significant political move by the AAP government to consolidate its support base among the Sikh community in Punjab.
