New Delhi: Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh accused the Punjab government of trying to create panic by stepping up security in Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda and other parts of the district ahead of Baisakhi. Singh made the remarks at a special gathering at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib that was held to discuss the role of Sikh and Punjabi journalism, Sikh media contribution, and the challenges Punjab is facing.
Addressing the gathering, the Akal Takht Jathedar said because of the strict security, only a fraction of the usual number of devotees thronged the shrine this time ahead of Baisakhi.
"Every year, we see a big gathering which starts from April 5 (for Baisakhi). But (at present), the number of 'sangat' is just 10 per cent. The reason is the panic created by the government. I want to tell the Punjab government through this platform that this strictness has created a panic, and it should be ended,” Giani Harpreet Singh said.
The gathering comes amid concerns about the rise of secessionist forces in Punjab, especially in the wake of law and order breach in Ajnala Police Station attack led by radical preacher Amritpal Singh.
Referring to certain media reports, Singh said, “Earlier they said Amritpal Singh will surrender here. Now they will start saying that he will surrender on Baisakhi day, and an attempt will be made to create panic in his name. The government should avoid it.” He said that when such a situation is created, it does not affect only the image of Punjab, but also the government which is ruling the state. "At least save your image," he said.
He further added that leaves of Punjab police personnel have been cancelled and they have been asked to report on duty. "All of them have been sent to Damdama Sahib. What will happen here?" he said.
Singh said a flag march on Thursday witnessed policemen deployed in every nook and corner. "An attempt was being made to project the situation as dangerous and it was very unfortunate."
He also appealed to the people to attend Baisakhi festival in maximum number at Damdama Sahib.
Speaking to mediapersons later, the Jathedar again asked radical preacher Amritpal Singh to surrender. "I had earlier appealed to him. He should surrender," Singh said.
It is to be noted that Baisakhi, one of Punjab's biggest festivals, marks the foundation day of the 'Khalsa Panth' (Sikh order) by the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. It also marks the onset of harvest season. On this day, people across Punjab offer prayers at gurdwaras.