SRINAGAR, JUNE 17 (KNO) : Minister for Finance, Labour and Employment has lauded the role played by the Sikh community in maintaining the communal harmony, brotherhood in the state. The Minister was addressing the Sikh devotees at Gurdwara Shaheed Bunga Baghat, Barzulla Srinagar during the martyrdom anniversary of 5th Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
The Minister appreciated the role of Sikh Community in the development and progress of the state and said the role played by the sikh community to maintain the communal harmony is laudable. He said the members of Sikh community worked shoulder to shoulder with the Muslim brethren during tough times and stick to the values and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Bukhari also appreciated the functioning of various Sikh organizations in field of education, providing social assistance to the needy at the time of natural calamities. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister paid tributes to 5th Sikh Guru, Arjan Dev Ji on his death anniversary.
He urged people to follow Guru Arjan Dev's ideals of humanity, secularism and universal brotherhood, whose relevance had remained unwavering through the ages. He said that the Guru's supreme sacrifice was a perpetual source of inspiration for mankind and his spiritual philosophy would continue to guide humanity on the path of righteousness. He said Guru’s contribution to compilation of Adi Sri Guru Granth Sahib and construction of Harmandir Sahib at Amritsar will always be remembered by one and all. On the occasion, the members of Sikh community interacted with the Minister and apprised him about various issues faced by them and sought government intervention in resolving their issues.
They also thanked the Minister for introducing Punjabi language in schools and appealed the Minister to take personal interest in getting it implemented in letter and spirit. They demanded creation of posts for Punjabi language in Colleges and at 10+2 level. The Minister said the government would take all requisite steps to ensure equal opportunities to the community and that all their genuine grievances will be looked into.