Badal condemns attacks on Sikh pilgrims in Himachal

Sukhbir Singh Badal, the leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), has expressed serious concerns about recent attacks on Sikh pilgrims in Himachal Pradesh. He described these incidents as part of a "sustained hate campaign" that appears to have political motives. Badal believes that these attacks and the disrespect towards Sikh symbols are increasing tensions between Punjabis and residents of Himachal Pradesh. On social media platform X, Badal said he is "deeply pained" by the violence against Sikh pilgrims. He called for the Himachal Pradesh government to intervene and prevent further incidents. He specifically mentioned the desecration of the Khalsa Nishan Sahib, an important symbol for Sikhs, and urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukku to take immediate action. Badal also called on India's Home Minister Amit Shah to organize a meeting with the chief ministers of hill states to discuss how to protect Sikh pilgrims and their symbols. Additionally, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the Acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht, reported that Sikh youth have faced mistreatment in Himachal Pradesh. He claimed that some people tore down Sikh flags and a picture of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in front of police officers. This situation has gained further attention after videos surfaced online, showing alleged harassment of Sikh youth by local police and residents. Every year, many Sikh devotees visit gurdwaras in Himachal Pradesh after attending the Hola Mohalla festival in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab.