Chandigarh, July 14 (IANS). Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries Ravneet Singh Bittu has welcomed the Ardaas performed by the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib in the memory of all the victims of the era of terrorism in Punjab. Describing it as an important initiative giving the message of humanity, justice and social harmony, he said that every innocent person who lost his life during that period should get equal respect and tribute.
Speaking at a press conference held in Chandigarh, Ravneet Singh Bittu said that he had earlier also urged that Ardaas should not be limited to just one section, but all innocent people killed during terrorism should be remembered equally. Innocent citizens, bus passengers, policemen, public servants and all other victims were included in today’s Ardaas, which is a positive and commendable step.
Bittu said that Punjab has faced the most difficult and tragic period in its history. At that time thousands of families lost their loved ones and suffered the pain of violence for a long time.
According to him, expressing equal condolences and respect to every innocent person killed in that period is an important step towards strengthening trust and reconciliation in the society.
He said that Sikhism always gives the message of peace, justice, courage and service to humanity. It does not support any kind of violence, hatred or division. In such a situation, offering collective prayers in memory of all the victims gives the message of uniting the society and promoting mutual brotherhood.
The Union Minister of State said that acknowledging the pain of the victims and giving them equal respect is essential towards justice and social healing. He said that the people of Punjab should learn from the tragedies of the past and move forward on the path of peace and development.
–IANS
SCH/ABM