DEAR EDITOR:
While going through Bhai GurJit Singh’s explanatory letter (WSN, 1174788, P. 20) I came across a statement that I feel compelled to comment upon. Loosely translated, it reads: “With that we have warned the Akalis that any decision about the future of the Sikh nation will be made only and only by those who are making sacrifices. No one else has that right.” The Akalis, by their sheer ineptness and lack of vision and courage have long forfeited the right to decide anything for anybody. In contrast the freedom fighters are doing a remarkable job in preserving dignity of the nation in the face of such adversity.
But whatsoever the enormity of the sacrifices none should forfeit Guru’s rights, for in Sikhism the Sangat (the congregation) as a united body is the Guru Sahib’s living self. Collective decision of the Sangat is the Gurus’ word. Neither the Akalis nor any other group fighting for freedom has the Tight to impose its will on rest of the nation. Only sangat has that right.
As our freedom struggle matures we must realize that while groups fighting for freedom deserve the support of the whole nation and lot of credit for their courage and commitment, they still remain a medium of carrying ‘Out a policy collectively decided upon by the Sikh nation. Very much as in an independent nation, defense forces are an instrument of the executive policy. Power arbitrage and the right to make decisions for the whole nation based on the number of sacrifices made in the battlefield bodes ill for the future of Khalistan. Whereas other maturing nations have had to borrow the concepts of democracy from the Western states, the Sikh nation has the executive polibeen fortunate enough to have the concepts of collective decision imbibed in its scriptures. Let’s follow them, for scriptures are a power that will keep the flames of freedom burning forever. Long Live Khalistan
Preetinder Singh
Amberst, N.Y., 14261
Dear Sir;
The Sikhs of Yuba City are to be congratulated on celebrating “Guru Gaddi Day,” Sunday Nov 6, 1988; which was a tremendous success. For a common purpose Sikhs coming from all over the United States and Canada put a question mark on the talk of disunity among Sikhs.
My first trip out west after 20 years on the east coast was an eye opener. The California Sikhs are dedicated to the Sikh way of life. Gurdwaras exist in many cities and many more are being built. By Guru’s grace efforts will continue. Along with best wishes for success in next year’s celebration I would like to offer some suggestions:
To attract the general public entertaining floats depicting Sikhs from America doing what they do best could be included. Sikhs in farming, trade, teaching, manufacture, medicine, research etc. Can make a positive statement.
A variation on vehicles besides trucks could be effective. Horseback riders, tong as, buggies, unicycles, even small tractors with smaller floats and younger generation’s participation can add color and charm to the occasion.
Local traders could be attracted by making arrangement with local motels, hotels, etc. by putting up visiting Sangat, although Yuba City Sikhs have not been lacking in hospitality and accommodation.
Soveniers are important reminders. A carefully evaluated offering could be effective.
Literature is sought very much. A bookstore selling Sikh literature in English and Punjabi would be most welcome. This undertaking will certainly put more burdens on the shoulders of those who already carry enough; perhaps more participants could be drafted. Sincerely,
Harjit Singh Rakhra
- Thetford, CT
Article extracted from this publication >> December 2, 1988
