Amritsar
( Justice news)
Responding to the controversy triggered by statements made by former Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) President and Akali leader S. Manjit Singh G.K. regarding his own role and that of Shiromani Akali Dal President S. Sukhbir Singh Badal on observing the martyrdom day of the Sahibzadas as “Bal Diwas”, and in reply to the legal threats issued by him over the disclosures made by BJP spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawala, Punjab BJP spokesperson Prof. Sarchand Singh Khiala today placed relevant newspaper reports of a Delhi event before the public to present factual clarity.
He also challenged Sukhbir Singh Badal to clearly explain his role in the matter.
Prof. Khiala stated that S. Manjit Singh G.K. is otherwise regarded as a mature religious and political leader, but unfortunately, prolonged association with Sukhbir Singh Badal appears to have influenced him into adopting the habit of denying past actions.
Prof. Khiala said that on January 16, 2018, the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee organised a national seminar at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, dedicated to the divine martyrdom of the Sahibzadas. At that time, S. Manjit Singh G.K. was the President of DSGMC. The seminar was attended by Shiromani Akali Dal President and then Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, S. Sukhbir Singh Badal, and Union Minister Smriti Irani as chief guests.
He pointed out that the seminar received extensive media coverage on January 17, 2018, including reports in The Tribune by journalist Syed Ali Ahmed and in Ajit by journalist S. Jagtar Singh.
The lead report in The Tribune explicitly mentioned that DSGMC had decided to recommend to the Government that the martyrdom day of the Sahibzadas be observed as ‘Bal Diwas’. Media coverage prominently highlighted the advocacy of ‘Bal Diwas’, yet neither S. Manjit Singh G.K. nor DSGMC ever issued any clarification or denial—then or later.
Prof. Khiala further said that photographs published at the time clearly show Manjit Singh G.K. present at the event, jointly honouring Union Minister Smriti Irani alongside S. Sukhbir Singh Badal, with the backdrop banner clearly displaying “Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee,” further establishing factual authenticity.
Addressing objections raised over the use of the word ‘Bal’ in reference to the Sahibzadas, Prof. Khiala responded with references from Sikh history and Gurbani, asserting that the term ‘Bal’ is not derogatory, but rather signifies purity, innocence, and spiritual greatness in Sikh tradition.
Sri Guru Harikrishan Sahib is revered as ‘Bala Preetam’, and the childhood of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji is honoured in Sikh history as ‘Bala Preetam’ and ‘Bal Gobind Rai’.
He added that in Bhai Dana Singh’s composition Katha Guru Ke Sutan Ki, the term ‘Bal’ is used for the younger Sahibzadas with affection and reverence. Similarly, Bhai Gurdas Ji’s Vaaran and Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Bani in Siddh Gosht mention Guru Sahib being addressed as ‘Bala’ by the Siddhas.
Representing Sikh sentiments, Prof. Khiala said that at Takht Sri Harmandir Ji, Patna Sahib, when the then Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Harpreet Singh, shared Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement to observe ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ on December 26, it was welcomed with jaikaaras and great enthusiasm by the Sangat.
He emphasised that the sacrifice of the Sahibzadas is an immortal martyrdom for the protection of humanity, faith, justice, and righteousness. Their courage, choosing death over compromising principles, continues to inspire millions who refuse to bow before injustice.
‘Veer Bal Diwas’ is a dignified national platform to carry the message of the Sahibzadas’ unparalleled sacrifice, bravery, and commitment to justice to every corner of the country and the world. It symbolises martyrdom, pride, and national consciousness.
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