SAYS DARSHAN SINGH KHALSA

JULLUNDUR, India: Prof. Darshan Singh Jathedar of Akal Takht has alleged that the

Government was indulging in licensed extremism. Addressing an Amrit Parchar convention here, Prof. Darshan Singh said that innocent persons were being killed in false encounters. He described the present government as the worst in the history of the country.

Prof. Darshan Singh said that no Sikh supported extremism or the killing of innocent persons. They also wanted to live in peace. He said that whatever extremism was there in Punjab it was due to the government. Prof. Darshan Singh said that people could not get justice until politics was not based on religion as both were inseparable. He regretted that courts, Commissions and agreements have been politicized. He said that Singh Sahibs have nothing to do with politics and will always remain nonpolitical. Prof. Darshan Singh was of the opinion that both the government and people would live in peace if they remain linked with religion. Referring to their efforts taken to enforce unity between Akali factions, Prof. Darshan Singh said that it has nothing to do with politics but was based on principles. He regretted that ruling party leader had sought clarification from him when no conditions were placed. Giani Puran Singh Head Priest of Harmandir Sahib said that Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh was attacked by police without any reason. He accused the government of preventing devotees from going to Harimandir Sahib. Giani Puran Singh said that police did not take the permission of the authorities before entering the Parkarma. Calling for unity of the Panth he said that the issues of the community could only be solved if various factions merged their identities into one.

Jaswant Singh Jathedar of Damdama Sahib said people would give no response to Akali Dal and their leaders if they held conventions after resigning their post. Others who spoke at the convention were Surinder Singh Jathedar of Kesgarh Sahib. Kashmira Singh Head Granthi of Akal Takht and others. They called upon the people to become Amritdharies and criticized the Mishra Commission report.

Article extracted from this publication >>  March 13, 1987