Punjab CM Mann calls for peace after Sikh body chief 'glorifies' carrying weapons

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday called for peace after the leader of a Sikh organisation glorified carrying weapons.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday urged Jathedar Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Harpreet Singh to spread the message of peace, harmony, and brotherhood in society rather than asking Sikhs to keep licenced weapons.

The chief minister took strong exception to the statement of Jathedar Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Harpreet Singh that every Sikh should possess a modern weapon. He stated that we live in a civilised society where the rule of law governs the country. Weapons, according to Bhagwant Mann, have no place in a peaceful and harmonious society.

The chief minister also stated that the Jathedar Akal Takht should focus on spreading the message of Gurbani, which envisions 'sarbat da bhalaa' (welfare of one and all). He advised Jathedar to concentrate on spreading this divine message of well-being to everyone in every household.

Bhagwant Mann also urged the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht to focus on this noble cause rather than asking Sikhs to obtain licenced modern weapons.

READ | Is it legal to carry weapons in processions | Explainer

The chief minister said that it is the need of the hour to ensure that the hard-earned peace of the state is maintained at every cost.

He stated that forces hostile to peace and harmony in the state are already trying to disrupt its peace and that weapons in every household can pose a serious threat to the state's peaceful atmosphere.