Voice of Sikh- VOKS

𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐭'𝐬 𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐆𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐡𝐚𝐤 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐞 (𝐃𝐆𝐏𝐂) 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐣𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐡 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐮𝐧𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬.

1.Have they established educational institutions or provided scholarships to needy students? Education is crucial for uplifting communities and empowering individuals. Initiatives such as funding schools, providing educational materials, or offering scholarships can significantly impact the lives of students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.

2.What efforts have they made to improve healthcare access for the Sikh community and the broader population? This could include organizing medical camps, providing free or subsidized healthcare services, or supporting hospitals and clinics in the region. Access to healthcare is essential for addressing the health needs of individuals and families, particularly those facing financial constraints.

3.Have they implemented programs to support the overall welfare of the Sikh community and marginalized groups? This might involve initiatives such as providing food aid, shelter assistance, vocational training programs, or employment opportunities for unemployed individuals. These programs can help alleviate poverty, improve living standards, and foster community development.

4. What contributions have they made towards developing infrastructure in Sikh-dominated areas? This could include the construction or renovation of Gurdwaras, community centers, schools, hospitals, or other essential facilities. Infrastructure development plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life and meeting the basic needs of residents.

5.How have they responded to natural disasters or emergencies affecting the Sikh community or the broader population? Active involvement in disaster relief efforts, including providing immediate assistance, shelter, food, and medical aid, demonstrates a commitment to humanitarian values and community solidarity during times of crisis.

6.Lastly, how transparent are their operations, and do they ensure accountability to the Sikh community? Transparency in financial matters, decision-making processes, and overall governance is essential for fostering trust and confidence among community members. Regular communication, reporting mechanisms, and engagement with stakeholders can help maintain accountability and ensure that resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of the community.

By evaluating the tangible actions and initiatives undertaken by the DGPC Kashmir and the Mahant Manjeet Singh Group in these areas, we can better understand their impact on the Sikh community and assess their commitment to serving the needs of vulnerable individuals and families.

𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝗰𝘁 (𝗖𝗔𝗔) 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗺𝘀.

The Citizenship Amendment Act, or CAA, is a law passed by the government of India in December 2019. It aims to provide Indian citizenship to certain religious minorities from neighboring countries who have fled persecution and entered India before December 2014.

So, who does the CAA apply to? The CAA applies to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, who entered India before December 31, 2014.

Now, you might wonder why only these specific groups are included. Well, the CAA seeks to address the issue of religious persecution faced by minority communities in these countries. These communities often face discrimination and violence because of their religious beliefs.

Under the CAA, eligible individuals from these communities who entered India before December 2014 can apply for Indian citizenship. This means they can enjoy the rights and privileges that come with being an Indian citizen, such as the right to vote and own property.

However, it's important to note that the CAA has sparked debates and protests across India. Some people argue that it discriminates against Muslims, as they are not included in the list of eligible religious groups. They fear that it goes against the secular principles of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees equality for all citizens regardless of religion.

The government, on the other hand, maintains that the CAA is a humanitarian gesture aimed at helping persecuted minorities from neighboring countries. They argue that it does not take away the citizenship rights of any Indian citizen, including Muslims.

The Citizenship Amendment Act is a law designed to grant Indian citizenship to certain religious minorities from neighboring countries who have faced persecution. While it aims to provide relief to these communities, it has also sparked debates and protests over concerns of discrimination and its impact on India's secular fabric.

Voice of Sikh- VOKS

Please Share -------

Missing kindly share

Charanjeet Kour Student Of 6th Class 13 Yrs Age. Missing From Srinagar Lal Mandi Wazir Bagh near LD Hospital.
Contact mumber of parent:8715061797

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to the esteemed Dr. Baljeet Singh, a revered orthopedic specialist hailing from Guru Ramdass Hospital, Amritsar. Dr. Singh's unwavering commitment to the welfare of patients in Kashmir was unparalleled. His monthly visits and selfless provision of free check-ups to the underprivileged epitomized compassion and humanitarianism. His legacy as a beacon of hope and healing will forever illuminate our memories. Rest in peace, Dr. Baljeet Singh. Your exemplary service and boundless generosity will be dearly missed. 🕊️🌹

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐢'𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲( Prime Minister as a beacon of hope)

In the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, amidst the breathtaking landscapes, lies a community whose voices have often been overlooked—the Sikh community of Kashmir. For decades, the Sikhs of Kashmir have silently borne the brunt of neglect and marginalization, yearning for recognition and meaningful inclusion in the region's development narrative. However, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his visit to Kashmir on March 7th, 2024, there is a renewed sense of hope and anticipation among the Sikh community.

The Sikh community of Kashmir has long held steadfast faith in the democratic process and the promise of equitable representation. Despite enduring years of neglect, they continue to harbor optimism that each visit by dignitaries offers a glimmer of opportunity for their voices to be heard and their grievances addressed.

Prime Minister Modi's forthcoming visit to Kashmir is perceived as a significant milestone—an occasion that holds the promise of tangible outcomes for the Sikh community. Amidst the backdrop of political complexities and regional dynamics, the Sikh community remains resolute in its belief that this visit will herald positive developments and usher in a new era of empowerment and inclusion.

The expectations of the Sikh community are grounded in the desire for substantive measures that address their long-standing concerns. Foremost among these is the demand for recognition and preservation of Sikh heritage sites in Kashmir, which hold immense historical and cultural significance. These sites serve as a testament to the rich legacy of Sikhism in the region and must be safeguarded for future generations.

Additionally, the Sikh community seeks avenues for socio-economic upliftment and equitable opportunities for growth and development. With a robust tradition of entrepreneurship and a spirit of resilience, the Sikhs of Kashmir are eager to contribute meaningfully to the region's prosperity. However, they require support and facilitation from the government to realize their full potential.

Moreover, there is a pressing need for the resolution of long-pending issues that have hindered the progress and well-being of the Sikh community. From addressing land disputes to ensuring access to quality education and healthcare, there are numerous challenges that demand urgent attention and redressal.

As Prime Minister Modi prepares to address the people of Kashmir, the Sikh community stands united in its hope for substantive announcements and concrete measures that will transform their lives for the better. They look to the Prime Minister as a beacon of hope—a leader who will not only acknowledge their existence but also champion their cause on the national stage.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Kashmir on March 7th, 2024, represents a watershed moment for the Sikh community—a moment imbued with hope, optimism, and the promise of a brighter future. As the Prime Minister engages with the people of Kashmir, the Sikh community remains steadfast in its belief that this visit will mark the beginning of a new chapter of empowerment, recognition, and inclusion for all.

Editor
Voice of Kashmiri Sikh (VOKS)

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐨𝐭𝐲𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐊𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬

In recent times, the Sikh community has been unjustly subjected to the harmful and baseless label of "Khalistani." This term, originally rooted in a specific political movement, has been misappropriated and used to generalize and stigmatize an entire community. It is imperative for administrations and societies alike to recognize and address this issue head-on, taking decisive action against those who perpetuate such harmful stereotypes.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand the historical context behind the term "Khalistani." The Khalistan movement, originating in the 1970s and 1980s, advocated for the creation of an independent Sikh state. However, the vast majority of Sikhs, both then and now, do not support or identify with this movement. Most Sikhs are peace-loving individuals who contribute positively to their communities and societies.

The mislabeling of Sikhs as Khalistanis has serious repercussions. It not only tarnishes the reputation of the Sikh community but also perpetuates discrimination and prejudice. Sikhs have often faced profiling, harassment, and even violence as a result of this misrepresentation. Moreover, it undermines efforts to foster unity and understanding among diverse communities.

Therefore, it is incumbent upon administrations to take swift and decisive action to address this issue. This can be done through various means:

1. 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦: Governments can enact laws and policies that specifically prohibit discrimination and hate speech against Sikhs and other marginalized communities. These measures should include robust enforcement mechanisms and penalties for offenders.

2. 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬: Public awareness campaigns can be launched to educate the general populace about Sikhism, its values, and its contributions to society. These campaigns should emphasize the diversity within the Sikh community and dispel myths and stereotypes.

3. 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: Administrations should actively engage with Sikh community leaders and organizations to better understand their concerns and needs. Building strong partnerships with the Sikh community can facilitate dialogue and collaboration in addressing issues of discrimination and misrepresentation.

4. 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: Media outlets have a significant influence on public perceptions. It is crucial for media organizations to exercise responsible reporting and avoid sensationalizing or perpetuating stereotypes about Sikhs. Journalistic integrity and sensitivity to cultural nuances are paramount.

5. 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬: Individuals or groups who propagate hate speech or engage in discriminatory behavior against Sikhs should be held accountable under existing legal frameworks. Legal avenues should be accessible to victims of discrimination to seek justice and restitution.

The mislabeling of Sikhs as Khalistanis is a grave injustice that must be confronted and rectified. Administrations have a moral and ethical responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their religious or cultural background. By taking decisive action against those who promote hate and discrimination, we can strive towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Gurdyal Singh Bali

𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐧𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭'𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐬

Date: February 10,, 2024

The National Sikh Front vehemently opposes the recent decision by the Maharashtra Government to amend the Nanded Sikh Gurdwara Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Board Act, 1956. This move, aimed at increasing the number of government nominees on the religious body's board, is a blatant interference in Sikh religious affairs and cannot be tolerated.

Chairman of the National Sikh Front, Varinderjeet Singh, expressed strong disapproval of the modifications made by the Maharashtra Government. He emphasized that such changes are uncalled for and undermine the autonomy of Sikh institutions. The National Sikh Front stands in solidarity with the Shiromani Sikh Sangat ,Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Akal Takht in condemning this unjust amendment.

The Maharashtra Government's decision to reduce the representation of Sikh organizations on the Nanded Gurdwara Board is unacceptable. Sikh institutions play a vital role in ensuring transparent and religious functioning while upholding the sanctity of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib. Any alteration to the Act without consultation with Sikh representatives deeply hurts Sikh sentiments and undermines their rights.

Chairman Varinderjeet Singh emphasized that direct intervention in Sikh gurdwaras by the government sets a dangerous precedent and must be opposed. The Nanded Sikh Gurdwara Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Act, 1956, serves as a crucial regulatory framework for the management, maintenance, and operation of Sikh gurdwaras in the region, and any amendments should be made in consultation with Sikh stakeholders.

The National Sikh Front calls upon the Maharashtra Government to reconsider its decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with Sikh representatives to address their concerns. Sikh shrines are not merely religious institutions but symbols of Sikh identity and heritage, and their autonomy must be respected.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲'𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥-𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢-𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

The Sikh community in Kashmir continues to face challenges, with concerns being raised about their well-being within the broader Indian context. Reports suggest that Sikhs living in the region are experiencing difficulties, and there are allegations that those with anti-Indian sentiments are being promoted.

The Sikh community, known for its resilience and commitment to peaceful coexistence, expresses its apprehensions about the ongoing situation. There is a collective plea for a closer examination of the challenges faced by Sikhs in Kashmir and a call for inclusive measures to address their grievances.

Community leaders emphasize the importance of fostering harmony and understanding among different ethnic and religious groups. It is crucial to create an environment where all citizens, regardless of their background, can live without fear and discrimination.

The Sikh community urges a comprehensive dialogue between the concerned parties to address these issues and find sustainable solutions that promote unity and inclusivity. It is essential to work towards a society where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels valued and protected.

Chairman
Voice of Kashmir Sikhs(VOKS)
Jammu and Kashmir

𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐮
and Kashmir to honor the auspicious occasion of Gurpurab. May this day bring joy and blessings to all as we commemorate the birth of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Let us celebrate his teachings of courage, equality, and righteousness with unity and devotion.

𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲, 𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐮𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞, 𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧.

𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲,
marking several key events that shaped the faith. One notable event is the Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism. On December 23, 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sacrificed his life to protect the freedom of religion and human rights. He stood against the forced conversions and religious persecution of Kashmiri Pandits by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhism, was born on December 22, 1666. He is revered for establishing the Khalsa Panth, a community of initiated Sikhs, and for his valor, spiritual teachings, and commitment to justice.

In December, Sikh history mourns the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh's sons, Sahibzada Ajit Singh and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, who valiantly sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Chamkaur Sahib on December 7, 1705. Their unwavering courage and sacrifice remain etched in Sikh hearts, symbolizing the ultimate devotion to righteousness and faith.

The tragic incident in Sikh history refers to the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's four sons during the Mughal era. After the Battle of Chamkaur Sahib, the younger sons—Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh—were captured by the Mughal forces. They were offered clemency if they converted to Islam, but they fearlessly refused and embraced martyrdom. The two elder sons, Sahibzada Ajit Singh and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, had already sacrificed their lives in the same battle. This heartbreaking event symbolizes the unwavering commitment of the young Sahibzadas to their faith and principles, inspiring generations with their courage and sacrifice.

In addition, the Gurgadi Divas of Guru Granth Sahib was held on December 18, 1708. This event marked the formal acceptance of Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru of the Sikhs by Guru Gobind Singh.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐡 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 for the successful implementation of the Anand Marriage Act in the region. Following a prolonged struggle led by the National Sikh Front in Jammu and Kashmir, the LG government has issued Ordinance 597 today, marking a significant milestone.

This is to inform you about the sad demise of S. Chabeel Singh, originally from Dardapora Baramulla, currently residing at Azad Basti, Natipora, Srinagar.

The cremation will be held at 3:00 pm on 17.11.2023 at Shamshan Ghat, Karan Nagar, Srinagar.

S.Gurmeet Singh(Son)
S.Salinder Singh(Son)

*CONDOLENCE MESSAGE*
This is to inform sad demise of S Amarjeet Singh S/o S. Harbajan Singh R/o Lagama Uri
Passed away today at Jammu
Cremation will be held at his native place Lagama Uri time not decided yet

We are deeply saddened and shocked to hear about the horrific bus accident at Assar (Doda) that claimed the lives of many passengers. Our organization, "VOKS," extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families. We pray to God for the swift recovery of the injured.