New Delhi-President of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee , Harmeet Singh Kalka, said in a statement today that several bandi singhs of the sikh community have remained incarcerated for many years and continue to languish behind bars even after completing their sentences. He said that the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has been pursuing a sustained struggle for their release.
Sardar Kalka said that, with the objective of highlighting the issue of the release of bandi singhs and bringing it effectively to the attention of the public and the governments concerned, a bandi chhor release march is being organised. The march will commence at 9:00 a.m. on October 2 from Gurdwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib and proceed to Gurdwara Mastuana Sahib, where it will halt for the evening. On October 3, the march will resume from Gurdwara Mastuana Sahib and proceed to Takht Sri Damdama Sahib.
He said that the issue of the release of bandi singhs is not merely a matter concerning a few individuals, but an important and long-pending issue that continues to evoke deep concern within the sikh community. He stressed that strengthening a united, peaceful and collective voice on the issue is essential.
Sardar Kalka appealed to all panth dardis and members of the sikh community to participate in the release march in large numbers on October 2 and 3 and become part of the ongoing campaign for the release of the Bandi Singhs. He said that strong participation by the sikh sangat would help convey the community’s sentiments and demand more effectively.
He further appealed to the dangat to participate in the march with peace, dignity and restraint, and collectively lend a stronger voice to the longstanding issue of the release of the bandi singhs.