Former Punjab minister and Jalandhar Cantonment MLA Pargat Singh has strongly criticized Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for invoking the legacy of Sikh saint Bhai Kanhaiya during recent discussions on the contentious Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal issue with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
Political Controversy Over Spiritual Symbolism
Pargat Singh expressed deep concern over what he described as the trivialization of a revered spiritual figure in the context of political negotiations. The SYL canal dispute, a long-standing water-sharing conflict between Punjab and Haryana, has seen renewed tensions, with Mann's reference to Bhai Kanhaiya during Tuesday's meeting drawing sharp rebuke from the former minister.
Historical Significance of Bhai Kanhaiya
Bhai Kanhaiya, a prominent figure in Sikh history from the 17th and 18th centuries, is celebrated for his extraordinary compassion during wartime. He selflessly tended to wounded soldiers on battlefields, providing water and aid without distinction between friend or foe. His actions, deeply embedded in Sikh scriptures and traditions, symbolize universal compassion, sewa (selfless service), and unwavering devotion to the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Pargat Singh emphasized that this legacy represents a beacon of spiritual values that transcend political divides. "The trivialisation of a saint whose wartime compassion transcended all divides was not merely inappropriate but a profound affront to the spiritual ethos that defines Sikhism," he stated.
Alleged Desecration of Sacred Memory
The former minister argued that dragging Bhai Kanhaiya's memory into the political fray of inter-state water disputes desecrates a symbol cherished by millions of Sikhs worldwide. He noted that employing this spiritual legacy as a rhetorical device amid Punjab's resolute opposition to the SYL canal undermines the sanctity of Sikh traditions.
"Bhai Kanhaiya Ji's legacy stands as a testament to selfless humanitarianism, and using it in political discourse reduces its profound spiritual significance to mere political point-scoring," Pargat added, highlighting the broader implications for religious sensitivity in public discourse.
Broader Implications for Punjab-Haryana Relations
This controversy emerges against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between Punjab and Haryana over water-sharing agreements. The SYL canal issue has been a persistent source of conflict, with Punjab consistently opposing the canal's construction due to concerns over water scarcity and regional rights.
Pargat Singh's criticism reflects deeper anxieties about the intersection of politics and spirituality in India's democratic framework. It raises questions about how historical and religious symbols are utilized in contemporary political debates, particularly in sensitive inter-state matters.
The incident underscores the need for careful consideration when referencing spiritual figures in political contexts, especially in a diverse and religiously vibrant society like India. As the SYL canal discussions continue, this episode may influence public perception and diplomatic approaches between the neighboring states.
