Punjab CM asks Union Health Minister to approve Patiala Medical College upgradation project

CHANDIGARH, 23 November 2010: Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in a meeting with Ghulam Nabi Azad Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Tuesday evening at New Delhi strongly pleaded for speedy clearance of Rs.61 crore projects for up-gradation and strengthening of Patiala Medical College infrastructure.

He told the Union Minister that the state government has already made commitment for 25% contribution for the project. He also requested for increasing the number of post graduate seats from the present strength of 120 to 197.

Similarly the Chief Minister also requested the union minister that Amritsar Medical College may also be upgraded under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojna(PMSSY) and the project worth Rs 125 crores has already been submitted to the Union Health Ministry. He also stressed for expediting the clearances for starting construction of Advanced Diagnostic Centre under PMSSY at a cost of Rs25 crores. He also sought the intervention of Union Minister for sanctioning funds amounting to Rs.52 crores for Low End Equipment for Medical College, Bebe Nanaki Centre and Advanced Diagnostic Centre, besides expediting purchase of” High End Equipment by Government of India at the cost of Rs.30 crore for the same.

Badal informed the Union Minister that the Punjab Government has already passed an act for setting up Guru Ravidas Ayurveda University, Hoshiarpur. A proposal for one time assistance of Rs10 crore has been sent to Government of India. He requested the Minister to expedite the approval.

Responding to the issues presented by the Chief Minister, The Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad told Mr.Badal that he will soon hold a meeting with Medical Council of India in which Secretary Medical Education of Punjab and Principal Medical College will also be invited to discuss the infrastructure development and other issues of the Institution. Referring to the Amritsar Medical College, Union Minister informed that he will call a meeting of the Senior Officers of his ministry to discuss and expedite the issues. On the subject of setting of Guru Ravi Das Ayurveda University, Azad
informed the Chief Minister that more information already sought from the Punjab Government may be sent and necessary approval will be expedited.

D.S.Guru Principal Secretary to Chief Minister and K.Siva Parsad Resident Commissioner Punjab accompanied the Chief Minister.

Manpreet Badal to start Jago Punjab Yatra on Wednesday from Faridkot

CHANDIGARH, 23 November 2010: Former Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal who revolved against SAD leadership is all set to start his 'Jago Punjab Yatra' from historical city of Faridkot on Wednesday, November 24.

The Yatra would continue for 265 days and it will cover 167 towns and 1170 vilalges falling in 117 assembly constituencies. The Yatra would culminate on August 15 and it is expected that Manpreet Badal would organise a big show fo strength on that day. He has not yet announced the place of Yatra culmination. It is also expected that on August 15, Manpreet Badal would announce name of his political outfit.

Manpreet Badal had on November 14 held a massive show of strength at Amritsar and he was overwhelmed by the response of people. Thousands of people reached Amritsar despite obstacles laid by state government.

According to Manpreet Badal the Jago Punjab Yatra would cover first part of on January 14 with a conference at Maghi Mela in Mukatsar. Manpreet Badal has appeqled to people of Punjab to support him for the sake of Punjab's future. He said that atmosphere is created for a major change in Punjab. He sai that he would seek support from every section of society and all communities. He said that his main aim was to bring the state's economy on rails.

According to programme released by Manpreet, the Yatra would reach Dharamkot on November 25, Mukatsar on November 26, Kotkapura on Nov 27, Ludhiana on Nov 29, Budhladha on Nov 30, Mansa on Dec 1, Sardulgarh on Dec 2, Gurdaspur on Dewc 5, Jaito Dec 7, Niahalsingh wala on Dec 9, Ferozepur on Dec 10, Fazilka Dec 11 and Sanjam Singh School Badl on Dec 12. Talwandi Sabo on Dec 14, Maur Dec 15, Malout Dec 16, Balluana Dec 17, Abohar Dec 18, Lehragaga Dec 21, Fatehgarh Sahib Dec 22, Moga Dec 23, Bhucho Dec 24, Bathinda rural Dec 28, Bathinda urban Dec 29, Attari Dec 30, Delhi Dec 31 and Jan 1, Ferozepur rural Jan 3, Zira Jan 4, Majitha Jan 5, Bagha Purana Jan 6, Rampura Phul Jan 7, Bhadour Jan 8, Guru Harshai Jan 11 and Jalalabad on Jan 12.

Bir Devinder hopeful of support to Manpreet Badal by people of Punjab

FATEHGARH SAHIB, 22 November 2010: Former deputy Speaker of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Bir Devinder Singh on Monday said that he was very hopeful that people of Punjab would extend full support to former Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal during his 'Jago Punjab Yatra' and his mission to bring a drastic change in state politics.

Talking to newsmen here Bir Devinder Singh said that he has taken a right decision by backing up Manpreet Badal who is only hope for Punjab. Manpreet Badal is starting Jago Punjab Yatra on November 24 from Faridkot. He said that there are great chance that a third front would emerge in Punjab. He added that people of Punjab have tried both Badal family and Capt Amarinder Singh and they have failed to protect the prestige of state. He said that people were looking for a change.

Bir Devinder Singh said that both Parkash Singh Badal had remained Chief Minister and both belonged to Malwa region which is most effected by cancer. He said that hundereds of people from Bathinda region go to Bikaner for cance treatment. The private hospitals are flourishing on the plight of Punjabis. He said that let both Badal and Capt Amarinder Singh contribute Rs.500 crore each and he will alone raise Rs.1000 crore to make world class cancer hospital in Malwa so that people can live long. He said that they(Badal and Amarinder) have enjoyed power for years but when turn comes to support people they ran away from their responsibility.

Human rights body demands Rs. 10 lakh compensation for each of elctrocuted youth

BATALA, 21 November : Universal human rights organization has demanded Rs. 10 lakh each to the aggrieved families of 6 youths who were electrocuted due to the alleged negligence of power corporation while lying power lines at Shahpur Jajan village under Dera Baba Nanak police station on September 3.

Talking to the media persons here Sunday Satnam Singh Dhaliwal chief, universal human rights organization and Col.(Retd) J S Shahi told that the state government had provided Rs. 10 Lakh each and a government job to the families of a Rehri owner at Patiala and an ETT teacher at Kapurthala respectively who had immolated their self recently then why Power Corporation was not giving the such compensation to these families whose without fault, their bread earners lost their lives.

They said that Punjab Assembly speaker Nirmal Singh kahlon and Agriculture Minister Sucha Singh Langah had visited their families and announced Rs. 0ne lakh each and a government job to the aggrieved families. These families had received Rs. One lakh each but have yet to get the jobs. The compensation was meager and it should be minimum Rs. 10 lakh.

They said that Universal human rights organization has succeeded in starting an enquiry into the incident and S.P Crime Amritsar R.K.Sharda had started the enquiry which would be completed till December 14.
The family members of deceased families were also present in the conference.

Muslims hold Medical Camp at Sikh shrine, the Golden Temple

AMRITSAR, 21 November : Sir Syed Forum primarily comprising of AMU, Aligarh alumni Forum organized a medical camp at Harmandhar Sahib (Golden Temple) here today on the occasion of birth anniversary of founder of Sikh religion Guru Nanak Dev.

The Camp was inaugurated by Jathedar Akal Takht (highest Sikh temporal seat) Gyani Gurbachan Singh, who praised the efforts of the doctors from Aligarh Muslim University on the occasion religious day.

Former Union Minister & AMU Alumnus Arif Mohd Khan, was present in the camp, encouraged the initiative and reminded about Sir Syed’s contribution towards communal harmony & his emphasis on it on every
possible occasion.

Arif Mohd Khan said that for Muslims Guru Nanak Dev known as Baba Nanak peer and Muslims have immense regard for this highly spiritual and enlightened Baba Nanak Peer.

The Sir Syed Forum is unequivocally committed to pursue his ideals, and to create goodwill has planned to organize Medical camps on special occasions to serve the Indians of various denominational backgrounds. During Kumbh Mela we organized few medical camps at Haridwar in the months of March and April, 2010, said coordinator of the medical camp S Husain Waheed.

A dozen Doctors from Aligarh, Swami Bhoomanand Teerth Charitable trust, Haridwar & Birla sugar mills extended their selfless services in the camp to treat hundreds of patients who have been queuing up since morning for treatment of various ailments, stated Waheed.

Punjab govt shifts half a dozen IAS officers including Kapurthala DC

CHANDIGARH, 21 November : Punjab government on Sunday transfered half a dozen IAS officers including Deputy Commissioner of Kapurthala and Principal Secretaries of Transport and Forest departments.

Damanbir Singh Jaspal Principal Secretary Transport department who remained blue eyed boy of Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh has been sidelined and appointed in the department of Employment Generation and i addition Principal Secretary Printing and Stationary department. He has been replaced in Transport Department by Satish Chandra Principal Secretary Health Department who will hold both the charges.

R.C.Nayar Principal Secretary department of Forests has been shifted to Labour department. Dhanbir Singh Bains who is at present in the department of Employment Generation has been appointed Financial Commissioner Forest and wild life.

Raj Kamal Chaudhary Deputy Commissioner Kapurthala is appointed addtional Chief Electoral Officer Punjab. Kavita Mohan Singh Chouhan will be new Deputy Commissioner of Kapurthala. Narinder Kumar Wadhawan special secretary revenue has been appointed special secretary Technical Education and Industrial Training in addition Managing Director Sugerfed relieving Kirandeep Singh Bhullar of additional charge.

Ravinder Kumar Kaushik PCS Additional Secretary Technical Education has been sent to revenue department. He will also hold the charge of additional MD Sugerfed.

Ravidassia Community Rejects Idea of New Religion

JALANDHAR 10 February 2010: In a thorough and complete rejection of the move by the Dera Sachkhanad Ballan sect of Ravidasia community that had decided to move away from Sri Guru Granth Sahib and Sikhism and had announced its own new religion, large sections of the Ravidassia community have condemned such developments, reiterated their faith in the Sikh scriptures and said that liberation is only possible through the liberating and egalitarian enlightenment that comes from Guru Granth Sahib.

Not only this, even from within the Dera Sachkhand Ballan sect, sharp opposition has emerged against the move to not follow the holy Sikh book.

The Sri Guru Ravidas Sadhu Sampardaye Society, a conglomerate of more than 150 Dalit deras of Punjab, out rightly rejected outright the newly founded “Ravidassia Dharam” and said it was an attempt to create a new faith out of the Ravidassia sect.

The society announced that not only would it continue with the practice of following the Sikh holy book, Guru Granth Sahib, but will redouble its efforts to see that the concept of castelessness is practiced on the ground all around as envisioned by the great Sikh Gurus. Only then will the Begumpura of the dreams of Bhagat Guru Ravidass will be realized, it said.

At a vastly representative meeting held at Dera Babe Jore, not far from Dera Sachkhand Ballan here, the society unanimously termed the “separate religion” announcement as an attempt at dividing the communities.

“The decision taken by the Dera Ballan Trust cannot be imposed on the entire Ravidassia community. The newly created scripture `Amritbani Satguru Ravidass Maharaj-ji’ will not be treated as a `granth’. Besides, no one consulted all stakeholders in the matter before taking the decision,” society president Baba Nirmal Dass Jore Wale said in the presence of more than 30 dera heads.

Rejecting the idea that the new religion was some sort of assertion of the marginalised, he said while everyone condemns the killing of Dera Ballan’s Sant Ramanand in Vienna last year, can the Sikh community and teachings of Guru Granth Sahib be blamed for the cowardly act of a few people?”

“Guru Granth Sahib will not be removed from any gurdwara, while it will be re-installed at Seer Goverdhanpur, the birthplace of Guru Ravidas at Varanasi. The community should continue to follow the centuries-old religious practice,” Baba Nirmal Dass said.

The meeting noted that several members of the Dalit community had sacrificed their lives to defend the philosophy of Guru Granth Sahib. “Guru Ravidass’ bani reached the masses on being incorporated in Guru Granth Sahib,” the meeting agreed.

They also said much that the Sachkhand Ballan people were projecting as new was in fact very old. The participants said the sign of “Har” was created by the society in 1974, and the greeting of “Jai Gurudev” was being used by Dalits since more than 80 years. “We are not against any dera or religious figure, but only against the vested interests of certain people who are misusing the name of a dera,” they said.

They also criticized the attempts of some elements to browbeat those who had challenged the Dera Sachkhand directive, as with Samaj Bachao Morcha convener Gian Chand.

Meanwhile, two Ravidassia gurdwaras have formally installed the newly created holy book -- “Amritbani Satguru Ravidass Maharaj-ji” -- alongside Guru Granth Sahib, a step that the Sikh community may not really appreciate.

Jagdish Jassal, a Dalit villager, said Chaheru-based Dera Phul Dass chief Kishan Nath had installed the new scripture at the Ravidassia gurdwara in Nangal Krar Khan village last Wednesday. The text bearing Guru Ravidas `bani’ was placed in a separate canopy next to the existing Guru Granth Sahib. A police team was rushed to the village as a preventive measure. Similarly, the new scripture was also placed at the Ravidassia gurdwara in Dhadde village, though in a room separate from the one in which Guru Granth Sahib is installed.

The Divide Within

The sharpest criticism came from within the Dera Sachkhand Ballan with Sant Surinder Dass Kathar Wale, a major voice in the sect and next in hierarchy only to head Sant Niranjan Dass, saying that “I don’t agree with what is going on and I have boycotted all this.’’

He spoke to reporters at the dera’s branch in village Kooper Dhepur Adda Kathar last Saturday and said what needed broader consultations, seminars, debates and discussions and even a long drawn process of interaction with Sikh community leaders was sought to be done in a unilateral, dictatorial method by a few people.

He said, “What is happening is not what Sant Ramanad (whose killing in a Ravidass Temple in Vienna triggered the reaction) preached and practiced. This (severing ties with Guru Granth Sahib) is certainly not what he would have liked.”

“Sant Ji would extensively quote from the Guru Granth Sahib during his discourses and teach Gurbani to students at Dera Ballan,’’ he added.

Slamming the Sikh leadership, he said it had done little to end caste-based discrimination in gurdwaras or to bring the Ravidassia community closer. This discrimination is against the ideals laid down in the holy book and has led to the present situation.

Signals from SGPC

Meanwhile, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also sent the right signals as an act of rapprochement between Sikhs and the followers of Bhagat Ravidass and clearly said that it welcomed a major section of the Ravidassia community that wanted to continue following Sikhism.

The executive body of SGPC also appealed for “solidarity” and said all Sikhs revered Bhagat Ravidass whose bani (verses) is an integral part of the Adi Granth.

“There might be a handful of followers who are in confrontation, but the majority has been following the teachings of Gurus,” said Makkar.

Sikhism scholar Prof Gurdarshan Singh Dhillon said the very idea of someone coming up with a new religion was laughable as religions are born out of movements of hundreds of years and with a distinct socio-political agendas and have a clear idea of what the notions are about God, universe, human being, the idea of truth, the sense of what is evil and many other similar constructs. “How can a religion be pulled out of a hat one sudden day, and that too in opposition to a 500 year old religion that has been widely appreciated for its message of universal brotherhood and egalitarian society?” he asked.

Many blame the SGPC and the Akali Dal for doing precious little to ensure that the Ravidasia community, which has somehow gotten economic foothold, is also given its due place in power structures and social status.

Ravidass Dham Headship Row Rages, Nov-8-2010

JALANDHAR: The swirl of controversy around Satguru Ravidass Dham refuses to die down with Congress party leader’s former mayor Surinder Mahey and Shri Guru Ravidass Educational and Charitable Trust Chairman Seth Satpal Mal refusing to relent.

The two are involved in a row over headship of the prestigious under-construction project.

Mahey claims that he had submitted his written resignation in March and was reelected president by consensus while Seth Satpal Mal says that majority members had elected him acting president.

Bootan Mandi, an all-Dalit village and venue for the Thursday evening meeting between the supporters of the two leaders, remained tense.

Commissioner of Police Gaurav Yadav, who met the representatives of both groups, has deployed heavy security around the Dham premises and adjoining areas. He said no one will be allowed to vitiate calm.

An office-bearer of the Dham, Hardyal, said: “Removing Mahey from the post, as many as 19 of the 29 members on the Satguru Ravidass Dham Management Committee had unanimously elected Seth Satpal as acting president. Satpal has been president of Shri Guru Ravidass Educational and Charitable Trust, which is the parent body of the Dham committee, for the past couple of years.”

Satpal alleged that scores of devotees from UK, Italy, Germany, Austria, Canada and America and India had donated funds for the state-of-the art Dham, but the management has no records to show for the expenses.

“We have no personal differences with anyone. The members only want the written list of expenses,” he said.

Mahey, on the other hand, said an expenditure list comprising signatures of management committee had been submitted with the committee. “The matter will be sorted at the level of the committee,” he said.

Kirtan dedicated to Guru Ravidas, Satguru Nam Dev held , Nov-1-2010

Hoshiarpur, November 1
Ninth great kirtan darbar dedicated to Shri Guru Ravidas Ji and Satguru Nam Dev Ji was celebrated by Shri Ravidas charitable Sabha Punjab
and Shri Guru Ravidas welfare society at village
Senchan of Hoshiarpur with collaboration of Vishav
Guru Ravidass Mission Ludhiana, Guru Ravidas
welfare society Amritsar,
Dr. Ambedkar Society Hoshiarpur, Bagampura tiger Force, Ambedkar force,
Guru Ravidas Sewak Sangh and Bhagwan Valmiki
organisations. Thousands of Devotees participated and presented their obeisance in Kirtan Darbar.
Sant Swaran Das Dera Bohan, Sant Gurdeep Giri Pathankot, Sant Ranjit Singh, Dera Shaheedan, Bibi Shareefa Ji Udesian, Baba Ram Murti Nara, Sant Amandeep, Bibi Meena Dera Ratanpuri, Sant Satnam Singh Naroor, Sant Pardeep Singh Katharu, Raju Baba Shargarh, Sant Chander
Hans Bhogpur, Sant Balbir Singh, Birdh Ashram Hariana, Sant Satnam Singh, Sant Sarwan Das Ludhiana, and Sant Gurpal Das Taragarh delivered their discourses on Gurbani. On the occasion Des Raj Dugga CPS Punjab had given an amount of Rs. One lakh for the
development of the village Senchan to Shri Guru Ravidas Welfare society.
Avtar Singh Krimpuri State president of BSP, Dr. Neeraj Kumar, General Secretary of Society, Advocate Kamaljit Saroya, Advocate BR Dadra, Surinder Singh Sandhu, Jagdish Badhan, Sarbjit Virdi, Charanjit Singh Channi Ex MP, Advocate Chaman Singh Bhtoya, Braha Shankar Jimpa Seniour congress leader, Mohan lal Paehlwan and many others prominent were present on the occasion.

Chetna Association - April-14-2010

Thank-you to the Chetna Association of Canada for this opportunity to compare and contrast the histories of two great men who have influenced the course of politics and human development in their respective countries. Though Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and Tommy Douglas were born half a world apart, in drastically different circumstances, they both represent the finest aspects of public service, democratic principles and social responsibility. More importantly, both were known for their selfless determination to help those who were most vulnerable and their desire to ensure every person was treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their social standing or economic wealth.

Dr. Ambedkar was born in British India, a member of the untouchable caste, and he grew up fighting discrimination and oppression. He became an outspoken opponent of the caste system and advocated on behalf of the Dalit peoples throughout his life. He also served as a positive example by becoming one of the first untouchables to enter university in India and he followed this success by obtaining degrees from Columbia University and the London School of Economics. As a renowned scholar, he wrote many articles on social justice and political freedoms. He also practiced as a lawyer, gaining knowledge and experience in the British common law legal system.

Dr. Ambedkar was an activist in every sense of the word. He campaigned for social and political rights for the untouchables very aggressively, prompting demonstrations all over India and even coming into conflict with Mahatma Ghandi over strategy and tactics. Eventually, and naturally, Dr. Ambedkar entered politics, founding the Independent Labour Party in 1936. He also continued publishing withering attacks on the caste system and those who supported it, either through their actions or by passive acquiescence.

Perhaps Dr. Ambedkar is best recognized for his role as Father of the Indian Constitution. Academics often refer to the unique combination of ideals that were encompassed in the Constitution, relying on western democratic structures overlaid by the tribal systems of traditional Indian
society. As a social document, the Constitution brought India into the 20th century by providing the kind of civil rights and guarantees that allowed India to take its place as a modern democratic nation.

When I talk about Dr. Ambedkar, I often refer to him as a combination of Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. Not only did he have the intellect and ability to influence Indian political thought, he also had the courage and tenacity to wage a war against discrimination and intolerance. Certainly he must be considered as one of the greatest Indian leaders of all time. Tommy Douglas is better known to all Canadians, particularly as the Father of Medicare. He was also recognized in a comprehensive CBC poll as our "Greatest Canadian" of all time, an honour that is well-deserved based on his history of public service and his determined efforts on behalf of working
people all across Canada.

When Tommy Douglas was elected as the Premier of Saskatchewan, forming the first democratic socialist government in North America, he started a social movement that changed our political landscape. Like Dr. Ambedkar, Tommy Douglas was a proud socialist, making no apologies for his belief in universal services and equal opportunity. Interestingly, both Douglas and Ambedkar first joined political organizations called the Independent Labour Party, at close to the same time, in their respective countries.

Although coming from a poor background, Tommy Douglas was also a welleducated man with two degrees and trained as a Baptist Minister. He
understood the importance of entrenching civil rights and broke new ground by passing the Saskatchewan Bill of Rights. He later called for a Canadian Bill of Rights, receiving no support from other Premiers around the table.
Eventually, his idea did come to fruition and paved the way for the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982. He was just way ahead of his time.

One of the proudest accomplishments of Canadian society is our universal health care system, though there are many who no longer understand the importance of equal access to medical services. Tommy Douglas fought a pitched battle against the doctors in order to institute public health care in Saskatchewan and his idea subsequently crossed Canada and became national policy. His stand on universal medical care influences not only Canadian society, but countries around the world. And while the debate still goes on, particularly with our neighbours to the south, Canadians know the value of Tommy Douglas dream.

After serving as a provincial Premier for some 17 years, Tommy Douglas went on to become the first leader of the national New Democratic Party and spent 10 years as a Member of Parliament, including 6 years as a representative of Burnaby-Coquitlam. (On a personal note, I became a New Democrat when Tommy Douglas had the fortitude to stand up against Pierre Trudeau and the
Liberal government when they invoked the War Measures Act in 1970, at some considerable price for the NDP in public opinion.) Throughout his career Tommy Douglas was known for "sticking up for the little guy". He did so with dogged determination, thoughtful collaboration and a wicked sense of humour.

Dr. Ambedkar and Tommy Douglas share many characteristics including their desire for knowledge and their willingness to learn, their indisputable commitment to equality and the protection of the most vulnerable, their belief in legislated civil rights and personal freedoms, their opposition to discrimination and oppression, their conclusion that democratic socialism provides the best governmental structure to ensure social equity and, finally, their strong belief in the importance of values and principles to guide our lives.

Let me end with a brief quote:

"My final word of advice to you is educate, agitate and organize; have faith in yourself. With Justice on our side I do not see how we can lose our battle. For ours is a battle not for wealth or for power. It is a battle for freedom. It is a battle for reclamation of the human personality."
I won't tell you who said it. Many of you already know. But it could have been said by either of these great men and it symbolizes their common belief in the power of ordinary people to make a difference...for themselves and for their
brothers and sisters around the world.

For both leaders, their legacy is not only in the written word, in brilliant speeches or in progressive social policies. Their greatest legacy is in the
people who continue to fight the battle for freedom, justice and human dignity. After all, we have learned this truth. "You can lock up a mouse or a man, but you can't lock up an idea."

Thank-you.

Derek Corrigan

M A Y O R

City of Burnaby

Jon and Suzi Livingstone

Jon and Suzi Livingstone are an ordinary young couple from North Vancouver with an extra-ordinary heart and passion for the downtrodden Dalits of India.

Having heard the plight of the Dalits,Jon resigned his position as youth pastor and together they have become a voice for the Dalits as representatives of DFN Canada.

They have just returned from India after four months of ministry where they visited and worked with our DFN Good Shepherd Schools. They have a great story to tell!

Both Jon and Suzi are excellent communicators and are available to share the Dalit story with your church family or groups: * Sunday Church Service * Youth meetings * Schools * Women’s Groups * Home Groups If you are interested in Jon and Suzi visiting one of your groups, please call:

Dalit Freedom Network Canada

Phone: 604-592-2238
Email: info@dalitfreedom.net

3rd Annual Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Nagar Kirtan Parade

Last Saturday, over 7,000 people participated in the 3rd Annual Shri Guru Ravidass Ji Nagar Kirtan Parade in Burnaby. After the long weekend was kicked off by a windy storm, some believe that it must have been divine intervention to witness a glorious sunny day for the Nagar Kirtan parade. The largest Nagar Kirtan parade in Burnaby’s history was marshalled by nine individuals carrying nine special symbolic flags which included: Canada, India, BC, Burnaby and five honouring Shri Guru Ravidass Ji.

The Nagar Kirtan parade of followers and bystanders was a visual delight of traditional Indian attire with ladies glittering in bright colours marking the joyous occasion. The atmosphere was highlighted with smiling faces; float riders waving, loud broadcasts, singing of holy hymns, and welcoming glances to people from all communities. “Our Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) Management Committee took it as a personal mission to make this the biggest and best Nagar Kirtan Parade in our temple’s history. Being the first ever Canadian born president in my temple’s history; it warmed my heart to see all communities join us and I hope we can see thousands of more people come out in years to come to support this festive occasion,” says Micheal Ghirra, President, Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver).

No matter where you come from, what religion you practice or what you believe in, there is something amazing about a Nagar Kirtan parade. Participants were treated to a sumptuous vegetarian feast which was welcomed by all in the community with open arms. Usually an event of this magnitude would draw a lot of litter, but not in this case. Burnaby city officials believe this was one of the cleanliest parades in the City of Burnaby’s history. “Thanks to all the participants, organizers and Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) Management Committee who made this annual event a great success; all of our hard work and dedication paid off when we were able to see the thousands of smiling faces in the crowd,” says Micheal Ghirra, President, Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver).

Special thanks to all the politicians and local dignitaries who walked with the Nagar Kirtan procession. The weekend of events Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) concluded with a bhog ceremony that was attended by over 2000 people at the akhand path on Sunday. Record crowds are expected in Vancouver and Surrey for their Nagar Kirtans coming up in the next few weeks.

For more information, please contact Micheal Ghirra, President, Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) at: michealghirra@gmail.com

Guru Ravidass Community Center Calgary New Committee Selected

Dear All,

Jai Gurdev, Jai Bhim.

On behalf of Guru Ravidass Society of Calgary, I am pleased to announce that On July25, 2009. Guru Ravidass Society of Calgary has selected new board and an Executive Committee for the term of three years(2009-April30,2012). Please see below for details.

The Board Members are:

1. Tilak Tura

2. Sukhdev Rattu

3. Santokh Sund

4. Roshan (Goldy) Chumber

5. Amarjit Kaur Sandhu

6. Harbans Mall

7. Rakesh Kumar

8. Kamal Birdi

9. Paul Thind

10. Madan Paul

11. Ganga Chahal

12. Roshan Lal

13. Rajesh Angral

14. Amarjit Lal

15. Vijay Barpaga

16. Sohan Lal Rattu

Executive Committee was nominated by and from the Board members on July27, 2009 and in effect on November 29, 2009.

The Executive Committee is:

Santokh Sund -Chairman

Roshan(Goldy) Chumber - President

Vacant - First Vice-President

Amarjit Kaur Sandhu - Second Vice-President

Sukhdev Rattu -General Secretary

Rajesh Angral -Assistant Secretary

Roshan Lal -Treasurer

Vijay Barpaga -Assistant Treasurer

Thanks

Regards,

Sukhdev Rattu

General Secretary

Guru Ravi Dass Society Of Calgary

RUINOUS OPPOSITION TO BABA SAHIB DR. AMBEDKAR’S CONVERSION MOVEMENT

PROLOGUE: Will murderous attack on Vienna Ravidas Gurdwara bring about any change? NO! They will continue as Ravidasia Sikhs/Adi-Dhrarmi Hindus. Most Ravidasi Gurdwaras will disown sant Rama Nand and follow Sikh Maryada in full. Even Ravidasi Sants will change their system and become real Sikh preachers. Following article written long back is more relevant today. Baba Sahib’s path is the quickest, the safest and completely metamorphosing personally and collectively. Just read, think and act.

1. Although, it is a historical fact that Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar is the real saviour of the untouchables, yet some persons, who otherwise accept him as a great leader, oppose his movement for conversion to Buddhism. A balanced attempt is made here to deal with this issue.

Caste System and untouchability have been prevalent in India since Vedic times. All the books of ancient India refer to caste system laudably and to denigration of the non-Aryans whether Shudras or Ati-Shudras. Inequality is deeply entrenched in Hindu society both at ideological and institutional levels. Whereas the upper three castes (Brahmins, Kashatryas and Vaishyas) shared (however unevenly) the three main sources of prestige viz. knowledge, power and property, the Shudras and the non-caste people were denied all of them. In modern time there are actually two main castes viz. the upper caste touchables and the lower caste untouchables, like the Whites and the non-Whites of the U.S.A. All through history there have been plenty of pro-caste system books and no anti-caste book except for the teachings of Lord Buddha. It was for Dr. Ambedkar to start a real onslaught on caste system.

2. Dr. Ambedkar had a very difficult task of awakening and organizing the backward communities who had been suffering for thousands of years due to caste system because they had accepted their poor status as an article of their Hinduistic religious faith, their exploitation being sanctified by tradition and enforced by the ruling castes. The untouchable castes were much more seriously divided amongst themselves than any upper caste. DR. Ambedkar tried to convince the Hindu leaders that caste system had proved ruinous to India but it had no big effect. To awaken his people he published various newspapers from time to time and started some agitations. Ultimately he came to the conclusion that belief in Hinduism is the real cause of the backwardness and exploitation of the untouchables. His classical analysis of the situation is contained in his book, “ANNIHILATION OF CASTE”. Finally toward the end of his life when he had completed his book, “THE BUDDHA AND HIS DHAMMA”; he embraced Buddhism and exhorted his people to follow his lead.

3. Let us first consider why Dr. Ambedkar turned to Buddhism? Why he made conversion to Buddhism as his final mission so far as the Untouchable are concerned?

(a) Having personally suffered under the caste system of the Hindus, Baba Sahib had made annihilation of caste and up lift of the oppressed castes as the chief mission of his life. He saw that religion is the main source of an average man’s Philosophy of life and held that Hinduism is a bad philosophy of life for the poor masses which resulted in their willingly agreeing to their being exploited by the higher castes. The Untouchables were the worst and yet willing sufferers under the caste system of the Hindus all through history. He had also seen the sad demise of the various Hindu reform movements (Arya Samaj, Brahmo Samaj and Prarthna Samaj etc) and of Shudras reformers (Ravidasi and Kabir Panthi sects and Ramnami movement of Ghasi Ram Chamar of Madhya Pradesh, Jatava agitation of U.P, Ad-Dharmi movement of Punjab etc.) and even of the movements of R.Swami Naikar and Joyti Rao Phule who criticised Hinduism vehemently but gave no alternative religion to their followers. Their followers remained in the Hindu fold and hence Shudras with all their handicaps. In fact all these movements strengthened the caste consciousness of the Hindus, both the high and the low. The idea of Adi-Dharam or Ravidasi religion being revived/recognized by government is futile whereas Buddhism is already recognized as a religion nationally as well as internationally. As masses can not live without a religion, good or bad, Dr. Ambedkar chose Buddhism as an alternative religion for the depressed communities for very good reasons.

(b) Moreover, Dr. Ambedkar had seen the antagonism going on between Mahars, Chamars and Mangs, (the three main communities) of his state of Maharashtra and the lack of unity between Malas and Madigas of Andhra Pradesh, rivalry between Dusadhs and Chamars of Bihar, enmity between Chamars, Ramdasias and the Balmikis, of Punjab (more examples can be added from other parts of India) which led to their exploitation even politically. Today the higher castes are more united, politically and socially, than ex-Untouchable castes themselves. The high caste Hindus/Sikhs take full advantage of the disunity amongst the Untouchables due to creation of Jati (community) based organizations. For example in spite of being 32% of the population of the Punjab, the Schedule Castes have no political or social clout in that State and continue to be exploited and put down.

(c) According to Baba Sahib, Buddhism is a religion that can unite the Untouchables on all India basis, culturally and religiously, replacing regional cults as now followed by various lower castes and can give them an honourable identity, leading to political unity. Any member of the lower castes who wants to go up or has gone up, generally tries to conceal his caste, because it is a humiliating phenomenon, (except for those who want easy but cheap leadership amongst their own ignorant caste people only on castist emotions) Even the word “Dalit” has become derogatory, just as the words Mehtar, Mahasha, Ad-dharmi, Adi-Dravida, Ramdasia, Jatav and Mazahabi had become polluted in the past. Changing nomenclature of caste is like quack medicine, it is charlatanism, it is child-like make-believe pretension. By calling themselves Buddhists, the ex-Untouchables of India can have an INDEPENDENT HONOURABLE AND INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED IDENTITY at par with that of Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs and also reduce the numerical strength of the Hindus/Sikhs in Indian/Punjab politics.

(d) In his book “The Untouchables - Who Were They and Why They Became Untouchable?” Baba Sahib has argued that today’s Untouchables are ex-Buddhists. They were segregated and suppressed through the mechanism of caste system because they refused to give up Buddhism. For the oppressed Buddhist, entry to high caste being tightly barred, they could enter only the Shudra communities which they did. It was only through cultural influence of the ruling high castes that they adopted many customs and rituals of the Hindus over the centuries. Buddhism continued its concealed existence under the cult of the Siddhas who were lapsed Buddhists. Neither Namdev nor Kabir belong to the Hindus and nor Ravi Das fits with Khalsa ideology; they all have roots in Buddhism. Look at their key concepts: “Sahaj Marg” of Kabir and Ravidas is the same as “Madhyam Marg” of Buddha; Satsang is an adaptation of Buddhist Sangha; “Khalaas”concept (Kauh Kabir jan bhae khalaaseh, kahe Ravidas khalaas chamara) is derived from Nirvana of Buddha. They all ridiculed the rituals and rites of Hinduism and stressed the need for Dhyana instead of chanting Mantras. That all the three above mentioned Gurus felt oppressed by caste system is clear from their own writings. However they only protested against discrimination and could not go beyond that due to their limitations. It is a tragedy that followers of these gifted reformers have given up their real teachings and are fortifying their own castes and trying to be more Hindu/Sikh than the Hindus/Sikhs themselves.

(e) Dr. Ambedkar wanted a religion for his people over which they could have their own control. He did not want them to be like victims of Arab imperialism always looking to Mecca or hand-maid of Western Christian Missionaries under Rome or under the hegemony of Akal Takhat of Amritsar. These hide bound religions are vested interest in the backwardness of Dalits. Buddhism is fully capable of shattering Brahminical hold on the minds of the masses and caste system. Buddhists have a historically honoured culture and heritage of their own of which they are proud. Just think of the ancient universities of Nalanda and Taxila, of Bodh Gaya and Sarnath, of Sanchi and Ajanta Caves. Buddhism can easily give a very honourable place to such reformer as Adi Guru Namdev, Satguru Kabir and Bhagwan Ravi Dass as they are in reality upholders of Buddha’s fight against superstitions, ritualism and social discrimination.

(f) The Dalit community is under complete political domination of the Hindus/Sikhs/Muslims/Christians (as per dominance of any community in any region). Religion which motivates us most of all emotions, has not only to be carrier of sacred tradition but also of political activism. The main line religions having already become vested interest in backwardness of the Dalits, are incapable of leading the Dalit liberation movement. Baba Sahib being well versed in the history of all religions, was aware of the role of Buddhism in revolutionizing the thinking of poor masses. Buddhism has a humanistic approach to all the problems of human society and has a long history of struggle against caste system and religious superstitions. While giving a lecture in a series, “My Personal Philosophy” in a broadcast on A.I.R in October 1954 Baba Sahib said, “ Every man should have a philosophy of life, for every one must have a standard by which to measure. Negatively I reject the Hindu social philosophy. Positively, my social philosophy may be said to be enshrined in three words: liberty, equality and fraternity. My philosophy has roots in religion and not in political science. I have derived them from the teaching of my Master, the Buddha.”

(4) People are ultimately moved by ideology. Hinduism is an ideology and caste system is its big project of mutual relationship – social, economic, political, spiritual and cultural. The Shudras in particular have been victims of this unequal relationship and can not come out of this relationship till they come out of caste system for which they have to come out of Hinduism as Hinduism and caste system are co-terminus. On the other side is the ideology of Buddhism – and ideology of individual freedom, personal dignity, and equitable social and cultural relationship with political and economic institution depending on relations of production. The ideology of the Saints of medieval India represented by the concept of “Begum Pura”(city of fearlessness) of Guru Ravi Das is closely related to Buddhist ideology. By tying yourself to the band –wagon of religion controlled by higher castes, you shout slogans of their supremacy forgetting Guru Ravi Das’s concept of “Begum Pura”. Can this emancipatory concept of Begum Pura be realized without creating an independent culture of self- confidence and self-dependence? All literature relating to your problems and laying down their solution is coming out of the Ambedkarite Buddhist awakening mistakenly called Dalit Chetna. You can now have your own literature and poetry, your own music, your own rituals, your own heroes, own pilgrim centres and your own slogans. Baba Sahib discovered all this for you and now it is for you to grasp it and rise to great height. Just as slaves and feudal serfs could not get rid of slavery and serfdom within old order, the Shudras can not get rid of their wretched situation without getting rid off Hinduism which fixed for them the worst lifestyle and allowed them no life-chances.

(5) Having shown that conversion to Buddhism is the best course open to the ex-Untouchables for their amelioration, let us now consider the double mindedness of the leaders of these people on this issue.

(i) The most dominant social phenomenon of Indian scene today is the mass conversion of ex-Untouchables to Buddhism. The Hindus / Sikhs are trying to discourage this movement. Why? This is because Buddhists refuse to accept the supremacy of the Hindus/Sikhs and are developing their own honourable identity outside other’s influence. By opposing this movement you are strengthening your own enemies. Buddhist movement is the vehicle of all round progress of ex-untouchables as proud citizens of India and not under the hegemony of anybody else. Why not join this self respect movement and have a dignified identity? Just dissociate Ravi Das/ Kabir/Nam Dev from the Hindu/Sikh system of thought and link them to the Buddhist movement to which they originally belonged.

(ii) Those who do not want to leave the Hindu/ Sikh fold and yet want to fight for equal status are fighting a losing battle because they are fighting against their enemies on the latter’s terms which are harmful to the former. Your agitation for equal status in the society is very disturbing to higher castes. By helping you to set up your own Gurudawaras/Temples, the Hindus/Sikhs have cleverly got rid of your presence in their own religious places. Where is your agitation for temple entry and your struggle against offences relating to untouchability? By setting up caste-based religious places of your own, are you not collaborating in maintaining and strengthening caste system which has all along humiliated you? Only Buddhism creates a fort for you in your own possession from which you can fight on equal terms. Do you doubt the wisdom of Baba Sahib?

(iii) You now suffer from “Broken Consciousness” and broken identity. You want to be Hindu/Sikh but these communities do not accept you as equal partners in their system. Even you yourself are not able to give up your own Chamar and Mahar identity even in a foreign country where there is no need for old identities. The difficulty is that there is no such thing as a Hindu or Sikh without some caste affiliation. By going over to Buddhism you can break this vicious circle. Buddhism gives you a complete and dignified identity with its own ancient heritage and current prestige in the whole world. This will also take you off the battle for temple entry or equality in the affairs of the Gurdawara or bogus fight over the Bhagat / Guru status for Kabir and Ravi Das., because you take them out of their system.

(iv) Do we continue to do something because our forefathers have been doing it so far (in spite of better course now available)? Do we go to somebody for advice/help (a doctor /lawyer/teacher) simply because he is our relative even if more competent person is available? Should we shut our door on Ambedkar simply because his ideas disturb our routine thinking? Only ignorant or coward or an irrational person will say “Yes” to the above questions. Wise person who knows his interest will say “No”. Baba Sahib has shown a better course than previously known to us and most suited to the modern time. Let us adopt it for the sake of our children.

(v) It is seen that the Chamars of Punjab copied the Hindus more than other castes. They have their own priestly class (mahants) and barbers on the model of high castes and have Chuhras lower to them in caste hierarchy to feel superior. Being economically better off than all other lower castes, they benefited most from the educational facilities provided by the government and almost monopolised reservation in legislature and administration. They

now want to be proud of their caste (cf. Putt Chamaran De modelled on the slogan Putt Jattan De) However they protest when others call them Chamar. Did not Guru Ravi Das lament his birth as a Chamar? (meri jaat kamini, meri paat kamini----- jaati hochha pati hochha, hochha janam hamara---- meri sangat poch soch din rate, mera karm kutilta janam kubhati---) He struggled hard to be accepted as equal to high caste at least in the worship of God but did not succeed, and hated to be a low caste man. What is there to be proud of as a Chamar? By declaring yourself as a Chamar you can not rent a house in a good locality!!!. In the past low caste people had no option but to live as low caste people. Now Dr. Ambedkar has shown the way to be equal to others in all respect. Why not walk on that path?

(vi) Some backward looking devotees of Guru Ravi Das often accuse the followers of Dr. Ambedkar to have forsaken the Guru. This is a false accusation and in fact it is the former who have betrayed the mission of the Guru by becoming the camp followers of either Rama/Krishna or the Sikhs Gurus who over shadow Guru Ravi Das in the Chamar temples/Gurdwaras. How are the Hindu Devi Devtas or the Sikh Gurus related by blood to the Dalits? At least Dr. Ambedkar was born as an un-touchable. It is only through the Ambedkar movement that the mission of Guru Ravi Das can be realised. By following Ambedkar/Buddha, the Dalits are spear heading the enlightenment movement of modern India in the same way as the Protestant/Renaissance movements led the making of modern Europe. Ambedkar is the forward looking prophet of modern India while others are looking to the past for their inspiration. Let us help Ambedkar to give modern outlook to Indian people as the backward communities stand to gain the most in this process.

(6) No religion is free from defects, both of philosophy and practice. You may not agree with some “Truths” of Buddhist history/philosophy. Religion is not wholly a matter of truth or falsehood. It is a matter of usefulness or harmfulness to society. Hinduism has definitely a harmful mechanism of exploitation for the backward communities. You can not gain dignity as long as you are in the Hindu/Sikh fold, as they can not give up caste system. The best alternate is Buddhism.

(7) Dr. Ambedkar was born as a Mahar and as a Hindu but died neither as a Mahar nor as a Hindu. After great deliberation and struggle, he intentionally gave up both these identities and became a Buddhist. He even disbanded his communal based Schedule Castes Federation and set up secular Republican Party of India. He wanted his followers who were divided on caste lines to come under the banner of Buddhism on all-India basis as other communities like Sikhs and Muslims. By going over to Buddhism one becomes an autonomous human being. If you are not capable of coming out of your Chamarism and Maharism, please leave Baba Sahib alone; do not drag him back to the humiliating status of a 4th grade Hindu. You see how the Bhangi Jati, by calling themselves Balmiki have not raised their status to that of Maharishi Balmik of Ramayana but reduced him to the status of poor Bhangi (sweeper). Let that not happen to Baba Sahib. You have to leave your Chamarism / Maharism behind and improve your status as a Buddhist as Baba Sahib did. Your fore-fathers tried to have good identity by changing the name of their caste but failed because they did not come out of the Hindu fold, and high caste Hindus / Sikhs refused to give higher status to the new caste. The interest of any lower caste lies not simply in rising up in the hierarchical caste system but in annihilating the system as a whole as advocated by Dr. Ambedkar.You have to give up your caste links and join India-wide SELF RESPECT MOVEMENT of Buddhists. Buddhism de-links you from the Hindu caste system and gives you not only ALL INDIA RESPECTABLE IDENTITY but links to the worldwide Buddhist society.

(8) Do not be afraid if you can not become a full fledged Buddhist. Don’t you find turban-less Sikhs or beef eating Hindus or Muslims acting and looking like Europeans? Still they are proud of Sikh/Hindu/Muslim identity. Just start calling yourself Buddhist and enter your religion as Buddhism in relevant records. By doing this you will strengthen the hands of your well wishers and reduce the strength of your enemies. You will also be giving a NEW HONORABLE IDENTITY to your children who can strengthen it more and more in course of time.

Press Release

Southall- The followers of Bharat Ratana Dr. Baba Sahib Amedkar, Bhagwan Valmik Ji, Sri Guru Ravidass Ji, Buddhist organisations of UK and supporters of Bahujan Smaj Party, met at Southall Dr. Ambedkar Centre, on Sunday, 31 May 2009. The meeting started with two minutes salience as a matter of respect to late Sant Rama Nand Ji. Chief guest Mrs. Kamlesh Ahir of Vancouver, Canada expressed her grief on the murder of Sant Rama Nand Ji and grievously wounding of Sant Niranjan Dass and others. She said that the attack is not just on saints of one Dera but it is a challenge to the whole Dalit movement which is struggling to live the life with dignity. The saints of Dera Sach Khand have provided a glimpse of hope and identity to the community in Punjab which has become an eye sore to the so called upper caste. She stated in clear terms that time has come to replace Sri Guru Granth Saheb with other book, picture or even an idol of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji in the Guru Ravidass Temples where they are able to make their own code of conduct (Maryada). She asked the people how long we will continue to imitate and preach Sikhism on our own expenses and live under the shadow of Sikhism? If we are not careful now, we will have similar attacks.

Mr. Raj Kumar from Toronto, Canada stressed that in free and democratic society, everyone has right to adapt and practice the religion of one’s choice. The attack on these saints who are an embodiment of love and peace is an attack on democracy and violation of basic human rights. Mr. Amar Daroch from Bedford suggested that all Dalits must observe 24^th May as Martyrdom Day as a mark of respect not only to Sri 108 Sant Rama Nand Ji of Dera Sach Khand, Ballan but also the martyrs in the Dalit struggle. Mr. Satpal Muman from Caste Watch UK requested people to write to their MPs to include caste into the Single Equality Bill which is being discussed in the parliament.

Mr. Deesh Gera, Gurpreet Bansi, M.S.Bahal, Gurpal Gill, Sinna mani, former Mayor, gautam Chakravarti, Gurdial Banger and others also expressed their views.

In the meeting, the following resolution was passed.

We wholeheartedly condemn the murder of Sri 108 Sant Rama Nand Ji, critically injuring Sri 108 Sant Niranjan Dass Ji and other followers of Dera Sach Khand, Ballan (Jallandar) on 24 May 2009 at Vienna in Austria (Europe). This cowardly terrorist attack on innocent people in a religious place was unprovoked and without any warning. It was a direct attack on democracy and peoples’ inalienable right to worship.

This incident of terror attack in a foreign land erupted in frayed emotions all over the world and particularly in Panjab which culminated in widespread anguish and resentment in the minds of the followers of Dera Sach Khand, Ballan, resulting in extensive destruction of property and loss of life. We urge the Panjab and Central Governments to release all those arrested unconditionally, compensate suitably those who suffered loss of life and property and provide free medical aid to the injured.

Arun Kumar

Arun.kumar@ntlworld.com

Tel 01234 312076

Who are the Ravidasis?

Sant Niranjan Dass and Sant Ramanand, who were attacked in a gurdwara in Austria, were religious leaders of the Dera Sachkhand in Ballan village near Jalandhar which has a large following among Dalits.

While Dass is the head of the dera, Ramanand, who succumbed to his injuries on Monday, was the second-in-command.

The dera, primarily a symbol of Dalit uprising in Punjab, preaches the philosophy and teachings of Guru Ravidass among the socially backward and oppressed classes. It also runs a number of charitable hospitals and schools.

Dera Sachkhand Ballan was founded by Baba Pipal Dass in 1900. He belonged to Gill-Patti village in Bathinda and moved to Ballan after his wife’s death. After his death in 1928, his son Sarwan Dass took over the dera. He visited Delhi and met B. R. Ambedkar in 1948.

The dera became stronger after it started propagating the teachings of Guru Ravidas.

The dera lays emphasis on the education of children while condemning drug addiction and child marriage.

Delhi-Lahore bus service restored

New Delhi, May 26
Delhi-Lahore bus service Sada-e-Sarhad has been normalised with a coach left the Ambedkar terminus at 6 am today.

Twenty passengers boarded the bus for Pakistan. An official at the bus terminus, Rajender Singh, said the violence erupted in Punjab in protest against the attack at a gurdwara, killing a priest, had hardly any effect on Sada-e-Sarhad Delhi-Lahore bus service.

The bus reached Delhi late yesterday, as it was stopped near Ludhiana due to violence. This was done as a precautionary measure. Today it is likely to reach at 7.30 pm, he added.

The official said two buses ply on Delhi-Lahore route. One comes from Lahore at 6 pm and the other starts from Delhi at 6 am.

A delegation of BJP and Delhi unit of Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal) met the Foreign Affairs Minister to adopt a diplomatic channel to work out the crisis, arrest and punish the culprits in Vienna. They also wanted to know about the medical facilities provided to the victims.

Today again, around 125 Sikhs staged a demonstration in front of the Austrian Embassy, demanding investigation into the killing of Dera Sachkhand leader in Vienna.

The Sikhs belonging to the Jalandhar-based sect gathered in front of the Embassy located in Chanakyapuri around 11.30 am and sat on a dharna there, demanding investigations into the killing of the sect leader Sant Ramanand during a clash between the rival Sikh communities in a Vienna Gurdwara on Sunday. They also submitted a memorandum to the Embassy officials.

Meanwhile, Sanathan Sanskriti Sansthan (SSS) condemned the violence at the Gurdwara in Vienna that sparked counter violence in Punjab and Haryana.

SSS president Jagjivan Bakhshi said, “Sikhism teaches tolerance, not hatred. If religious leaders have differences, they must resolve them peacefully. If one does not agree with another’s view, these need to be resolved peacefully.”

“It is regrettable that one person has been killed and several persons injured in the attack on the Gurdwara in Vienna,” he said.

Akali MLA, sarpanches threaten to resign

Amritsar, June 1
Clash between two groups of Sandalpura village (Batala) andy booking of pro-Akali workers by the police is likely to embarrass the Shiromani Akali Dal, as Lakhbir Singh Lodhinangal has threatened to resign as MLA if justice was not given to his supporters.
Lodhinangal said today all 187 Akali sarpanches of his constituency would submit resignations if administration failed to withdraw "false cases" against Akali leaders/ workers by June 4. He alleged the police registered the cases against Akali workers following a telephone call by senior BSP leader. The police has registered a case against Harapal Singh and 15 others under Sections 452, 427, 336, 323, 148, 149 of the IPC and the Arms Act. The police did not invoke the provisions of the SC/ST Act or 307 of the IPC.
Dr Naresh Kumar, SSP Batala claimed 25 Akali workers who induged in stone-pelting / violence were booked since senior government officials including tehsildar were eyewitness to the incident. He said SDM Batala, Rahul Chabba was investigating the case and action would be taken on the basis of his report. He claimed being a revenue case, the police had nothing to do with it. However, he rubbished corruption charges, levelled by the Akali MLA against Batala police . The SSP said the police had been working on "merit".
However, Lodhinangal alleged earlier too the DC Gurdaspur and the SSP Batala had been favouring opposition parties . He said he had already brought the matter to the notice of Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal. He said if his sarpanches submitted resignations, he would also follow the suit.
Rivalry between the SAD and the BSP took ugly turn and 10 persons were injured in a clash over the construction of village pond. However, the BSP alleged the village sarpanch Harpal Singh belonging to the SAD along with his supporters allegedly clashed with the fellow villagers who had supported BSP candidate from Hoshiarpur district in Lok Sabha elections .
Lodhinangal claimed the Deputy Commissioner Gurdaspur came under pressure following a telephone made by a Rajya Sabha member of the BJP who sought action against the Akali workers including village sarpanch.
However, supporters of the BSP alleged the Akali workers had been threatening them since they had supported the BSP candidte in elections . The police alleged the houses of Mohan Singh, Saroop Singh and Amrik Singh were vandalised and fridges, washing machines, wash basins, windows were broken by the miscreants.