Sikh Leaders Urge Administration for Public Holiday in Schools
Key Points:
- Sikh community seeks January 6 as a school holiday for Guru Gobind Singh’s Jayanti.
- Delegation meets DC, discusses religious significance and community sentiments.
- State-wide Sikh celebrations hinder school participation without a public holiday.
JAMSHEDPUR – The Central Gurdwara Management Committee (CGPC) has urged the district administration to declare a public holiday in schools on January 6 for Guru Gobind Singh’s birth anniversary.
The CGPC delegation, comprising Sardar Bhagwan Singh and other leaders, submitted a memorandum to Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal. They highlighted how Sikh students miss participating in Nagar Kirtans and related events due to regular school schedules.
Administration’s Response to Demand
Deputy Commissioner Mittal expressed her inability to attend the Nagar Kirtan but assured her presence on the central Diwan event day. Community representatives extended invitations for upcoming celebrations, emphasizing cultural significance.
Sikh Leaders Voice Concerns
CGPC Secretary Gurcharan Singh Billa stated, “It is disheartening that we must request a holiday for such a significant day. State authorities should prioritize annual public holidays for Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Jayanti.”
Leaders added that denying Sikh children the chance to engage in their heritage events fuels resentment within the community. The CGPC reiterated its demand, urging state intervention to ensure observance across institutions.
Cultural and Historical Context
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Jayanti is a pivotal event marked by massive processions and congregational prayers. Pilgrims from across the state gather to pay homage during Nagar Kirtans, which culminate in reverence for the Guru Granth Sahib.
Meanwhile, local leaders highlighted the precedent of recognizing key dates of other faiths and called for inclusivity in public holiday allocations.
