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http://singhstation.net/2018/12/canada-lists-sikh-extremism-threat/

In a First, Canada for the first time under the Justin Trudeau regime has listed Sikh extremism as a threat to the country.

The document drawing scrutiny is Public Safety Canada’s annual report on the terrorism threat to the country. A section on current threats lists “Sunni Islamist extremism” and “right-wing extremism” followed by “Sikh (Khalistani) extremism.” There had been no mention of Sikh extremism in previous years.

The 2018 report notes that while violent activities in support of an independent Sikh homeland (Khalistan) in India have fallen since the 1980s when terrorists carried out the bombing of an Air India flight, killing 331 people, “support for the extreme ideologies of such groups remains. For example, in Canada, two key Sikh organizations, Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation, have been identified as being associated with terrorism and remain listed terrorist entities under the Criminal Code.”

READ MORE - http://singhstation.net/2018/12/canada-lists-sikh-extremism-threat/

PUNJABI PODCAST - Guru Nanak's Legacy - Kartarpur Sahib

Eh Janam Tumhare Lekhe – ‘This life is dedicated to you’ is the most eagerly awaited humanitarian post-partition narrative and first Punjabi film of 2015, released worldwide on 30th January, presented by White Hill Production Inc. in association with Pingalwara.

For the first time in Punjabi film industry, there’s a film being made that’s based on the life of late Bhagat Puran Singh ji – a visionary and deeply spiritual and compassionate human being the man who founded ‘Pingalwara’ (Amritsar) – a home for destitutes and differently-abled people.

Full Review: http://singhstation.net/2015/01/movie-review-eh-janam-tumhare-lekhe/

More than 1,000 Sikhs attended 1984 Genocide Remembrance Parade in Melbourne marking 30 years since more than 30,000 people were killed in a massacre in India.

For pictures of the event, visit at:

http://singhstation.net/2014/12/thousands-turn-sikh-genocide-remembrance-parade-melbourne/

In a Disgusting and utterly shameful act against the respect of Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji Maharaj, a bridal photo shoot inside the Darbar Hall of Gurdwara Glen Cove in New York, US has raised outrage and concerns across Sikhs all over the world.

The photos of the Bride, Sonal Parmar, are already spreading on social media like wildfire. In one of the photographs, she is sitting on the throne (tabeyan) of Guru Granth Sahib ji with her back.

According to Sikh24 News, Glen Cove Gurdwara Committe has apologized for Anand Karaj Sacrilege and as per the Granthi Sevadar, no permission was sought from the Gurdwara for the photo shoot.

It seems such incidents are on rise in the west and Anand Karaj has become a mere ritual in these days. Only recently, there was a wedding held in Atlanta, US where the couple took lavan while walking side by side on the name of equality and for the sake of doing something different. Everyone is trying to experiment their bit according to their knowledge or for the sake of experimenting. The respect for Guru Sahib Maryada, Sikh values seems to be depleting.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/12/disgusting-utterly-shameful-act-bridal-photo-shoot-inside-sikh-gurdwara-us/

SHARE YOUR VIEWS - Who do you think should be held responsible for such incidents? Is it lack of education by parents or growing influence of western culture with Sikhi values?

Respect to the soul who left the sareer, One day everyone has too...

But at the same time, it was sad to see Manmat happening there

People are doing Chaur Sahib over him in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib ji

Wholly MANMAT - Should such a person be called Sant?

In a controversial act against Anand Karaj Maryada, a couple from west has recently wedded by taking the four walks (parkarma) side-by-side during the lavan (Each laavan involves walking around Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji).

As per Kaurlife website, the couple decided to do their Anand Karaj this way to embody the Sikh spirit of equality more visibly. They thought about standing during the lavan and not walking, they thought about alternating who walked in front, and they thought about sitting during the wedding. Ultimately, Shawn and Bally decided they would walk around the Guru Granth Sahib together, side-by-side.

In 2006 too, there was a minor uproar surrounding a Sikh wedding ceremony in India where the bride was asked to walk ahead of the groom for two of the four laavan.

Here are some pictures from the wedding:

As per Sikh Rehat Maryada of Anand Karaj, Article XVIII states

"The boy and girl should bow before the Guru Granth Sahib to betoken their acceptance of these instructions. Thereafter, the girl’s father or the principal relation should make the girl grasp one end of the sash which the boy is wearing over his shoulders and the person in attendance of the Guru Granth Sahib should recite the matrimonial circumambulation stanzas {Lavan of the fourth Guru in the Suhi musical measure section of the Guru Granth Sahib } (Pp. 773-4). After the conclusion of the recitation of each of the stanzas, the boy, followed by the girl holding the end of the sash, should go round the Guru Granth Sahib while the ragis or the congregation sing out the recited stanza.

The boy and girl, after every circumambulation, should bow before the Guru Granth Sahib in genuflexion, lowering their forehead to touch the ground and then stand up to listen to the recitation of the next stanza.There being four matrimonial circumambulation stanzas in the concerned hymn, the proceeding will comprise four circumambulations with the incidental singing of the stanza.After the fourth circumabulation, the boy and girl should, after bowing before the Guru Granth Sahib, sit down at the appointed place and the Ragis or the person who has conducted the ceremony should recite the first five and the last stanza of the Anand Sahib. Thereafter, the Ardas should he offered to mark the conclusion of the Anand marriage ceremony and the sacred pudding, distributed’."

This act also raises question onto the Ragis, Granthis and Gurdwara parbandhik Committee who let this happen. Now the onus comes onto Akal Takhat Sahib whether they take any note of this or not.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/12/anand-karaj-maryada-challenged-couple-takes-lavan-side-by-side/

SHARE YOUR VIEWS – What do you think about this?

A group of Sikhs from Sydney are sitting on 13 hours hunger strike to express their soldarity with Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa, who is on hunger strike at Gurdwara Sri Lakhnaur Sahib, 10th Patshahi near Ambala in Haryana.

It’s well known to each and everybody that Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa has continued to raise his voice for the freedom of Sikh political prisoners, now from Gurdwara Sri Lakhnaur Sahib in Haryana. He is facing some health issues, but he continues to be steadfast about his demands for the release of Singh prisoners.

To feel the pain and agony that Bhai Gurbaksh Singh ji Khalsa is going through for the freedom of Sikh Prisoners, Sikh Sangat from Revesby Gurdwara has organised and started a program to show their support for Bhai Gurbaksh Singh ji Khalsa, where one member from Sikh Community will sit on Hunger Strike at Gurdwara Sahib in Revesy, Sydney from 6am to 7pm everyday.

The soldarity campaign was started as of 30th November following Ardaas. Two Sikh members Gurwinder Singh from Pathankot and Rajwinder Singh from Patiala sat on first day hunger strike at Gurdwara Sahib in Revesby.

One of the Hunger Strike Campaign spokesman, Bhai Upkar Singh has requested other Community members to join their hands together and to be part of the movement by offering their names as per their availability.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/12/sydney-sikhs-sit-hunger-strike-soldarity-bhai-gurbaksh-singh/

AMRITSAR SAHIB — On Sunday 30th November, led by Bhai Amritpal Singh, Bhai Bagicha Singh Waraich, Jujhar Singh (Son of Bhai Khalsa), Bhai Major Singh, Bhai Hakam Singh and other Gursikhs, a large number of Sikhs held an Accountability Procession from Gurdwara Lakhnaur Sahib, Ambala to Sri Akal Takht Sahib Sri Amritsar Sahib with the aim to make Giani Gurbachan Singh, appointed Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, accountable on the promise of ensuring the permanent release of Sikh political prisoners made by him during the hunger strike by Bhai Gurbakhash Singh Khalsa.

In the absence of the appointed Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib himself, leaders of the procession submitted memorandum to his personal assistant Bhai Bhupinder Singh.

The memorandum reminds him that “in November, 2013, the Sikh nation held a large scale agitation led by Bhai Gurbakhsh Singh Khalsa for the release of Sikh political prisoners who have completed their Jail terms. Jathedar had ended the protest by making the assurance that he would get the prisoners released permanently. Those Sikhs who were released on parole have returned to Jails and two Sikhs were not even given parole release. Now, the Khalsa Panth reminds you that you are accountable for the release of Sikh detainees.”

Prior to this, the Sikhs also held a procession from Bhai Gurdas Hall, Amritsar to Sri Akal Takht Sahib raising slogans demanding the Jathedar to deliver on his promise made during last protest.

The Sikh Sangat from Haryana were welcomed in Amritsar by International Sikh Organization State President Kanwarbir Singh, Gurmanjit Singh, Bikram Singh and others.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/12/sikh-detainees-freedom-march-memorandum-submitted-akal-takht-sahib-jathedar/

Recently becoming the highest grossing Indian animation films of all time (with out inflation adjustments), as well as the First 3D Sikh Movie, Chaar Sahibzaade has pretty much become a cultural phenomenon and a new Sikh Multimedia staple. The movie has been praised for its emotional and unbiased portrayal of one of the most important chapters of Sikh history. The movie has topped the business chart in other countries as well such as the UK, Australia and New Zealand. The movie has collected £81,348 (Rs 79.45 lakhs) from 16 screens in the UK, A$141,387 (Rs 75.31 lakhs) from 22 screens in Australia and NZ$33,832 (Rs 16.20 lakhs) from 7 screens in New Zealand in the first weekend. It has, in fact, pushed Shahrukh Khan’s Happy New Year down to second place in all these countries.

The Punjabi version of the movie alone is on its way to become the highest grossing Indian animation film ever which at the moment is Hanuman released in 2005 after grossing around Rs 5.25 crore in net collections.

The movie has received a rather high rating of 9.9 on IMDB. The State Governments of Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab and Uttarakhand have also declared the movie tax free. These are certainly some encouraging numbers for the Indian animation industry.

I myself has personally watched the movie on big screen and yes it’s a great Movie.

But Does the popularity earned by this Movie does seem to be over-hyped? Well I hate to not give you a straight forward answer, but it’s both a Yes and a No.

Now why ‘yes’? Well it’s obvious, isn’t it?

This is the first 3-D Animated Movie in Sikh History.

• This is the first time that a movie based on Sikh history has been released in so many languages and on such an expounding level.
• This is the first time a movie on Sikh History has been released on a world-wide level in prominent Cinemas.
• This is the first movie that even Singh Sahibaans from Sri Hazur Sahib have watched in the Cinema Halls.

There’s certainly more I’m not covering, but yes this movie tied in new technology with breath taking Animated characters and art, and it came out as close to perfect as one could hope. Well, maybe not completely perfect…

See now’s the part where you’re probably going to send me an emotional email. The part where we talk about why this movie might not be deserving that big hype

First off, I’m talking about through it’s content, the Community hard-earned money, the sudden fan army and the measurable outputs. Does Chaar Sahibzaade Movie deserve it all? Frankly there are some strong points against it.

Let us first look into the word ‘Hype’ itself. I have noticed from some facebook walls that some people did watch the “Chaar Sahibzaade” movie upto five times in a single month even. Really?? Why??? Was it the 3-D effects, or the beauty of technology embedded in the animated characters, the music or the story itself, that touched one’s heart to such an extent. I can understand kids watching the same movie repeatedly but why will you watch it more than once or say twice…Isn’t five times too much and that too in a single month? Shouldn’t the same time be better spent on the teachings learnt from the movie itself rather than addicting oneself to watch it again and again on the Big screen.

There are organizations which are writing to Akal Takhat Sahib to categorise this movie as “Educational Movie”. Well sure, but then why not the other previously released animated movies like the ones released by Vismaad, CSJS Productions and many others. Is it because those movies were not released on a bigger scale or had such a popularity as gained by Chaar Sahibzaade movie…

Scrolling through the content, there were many distorted facts in the Movie which I have already covered in my other article on review about this movie as well. Those were – Khanda Insignia on the Dastaars of Sahibzaades, which was not even invented at time of Gurus. Also Mata Gujri ji has been shown without dastaar while she was a dastar wearing Singhani and was never weak or emotional too as shown in the movie. The dialogues of Moti Mehra ji were also not correctly scripted. In saying that, I do not mean to wholly contradict the movie as it can happen with any other project or movie too. But when a movie is so much over-hyped and also watched by Prominent Sikh dignitaries, it becomes highly important to have correct sequence of facts shown on the big screen. Also I would not complain about the distorted facts to the Director or Story-writer as the movie is directed under guidance of SGPC and other well-learned Sikh Historians.

No doubt that the Movie is portraying a very important chapter of Sikh History and it’s a great educational tool for our upcoming generations, but we need to understand if it is worth the Money that we have spent on the movie. The Directors might have spent nearly Rs 40 crores on the movie but the output we have given them is for Rs 300 Crores. Have we ever thought that this money has actually gone out of our community? Is this money well-spent or evidence of chronic waste? According to a study done by Australian Researchers, “The money spent is twice as efficient if it stays within the community” and it helps keeping the community alive and support better needed projects.

Infact Money is like blood. It needs to keep moving around to keep the economy going. If too much money is spent outside the community even for the community projects, the money (blood) still flows out, but like a wound.

Sikh community has recently evidenced many Film-directors and producers from within our community who have brought really good Sikh movies like “Proud to be Sikh”, “Sundri”, “Bhai Taru Singh ji”, Empty Inside, Rakhe Harmandir de, Ujjar thaon vaseo and many more…. But I think only 5% of the Chaar Sahibzaade Audience only might have watched or heard about the above movies as the producers of those movies had limited funds to release them on Big Screens. But just imagine the output and benefits if the same money flows via the Sikh Directors and producers who can provide a similar output. That way we will also create more jobs for our own people and promote Sikhi – “Naale Punn te Naale Faliyan”.

Moving further, Some people claim that many people took amrit or promised not to cut their hair after watching the movie “Chaar Sahibzaade”. Well, our heartiest congrats to those, who were inspired and took a step further towards a Gursikhi Jeewan. Firstly let me tell you there were two main Fake pictures posted on Social Media – “One telling 34 Radha Soamis took Amrit after watching the movie” and other showing people sitting in Akal Takht Sahib awaiting to get Amrit di daat. Both the pictures had no source and were just hyped by FB Posters. People do get emotional after watching such movies and no doubt 1% of those might even make some big decisions about their life-style changes as well, but there is also proven evidence that behaviour might get altered but soon disappears too as soon as one walks outside the Cinema like a puff of bubble. Studies also show that movies can have a direct, but not sustained effect on behaviour.

Let us now take a look at some of the low-budget Sikh Movies like Bhai Taru Singh ji by Vismaad Productions or Proud to be Sikh directed by Satdeep Singh. I myself have personally evidenced the people with tearful eyes and many promising the same as well that they won’t cut their hair in future or will prepare for Amrit. So my point is that if a low-budget movie can offer the same output, isn’t it better for us to save money and then spend that saved money in other much-needed projects in Sikhi. We need to measure the outputs – Is it just the 3-D effects, the fun, the tearful eyes for few minutes or are we measuring a bigger picture. No doubt, such movies are a great educational tool for our future generations but question is at what cost?

Some people may argue on this that the money given back to producers like Harry Baweja will promote other Bollywood producers to bring more such movies on Sikh History in the Market. But my question is – Is that what we want? Do every time we want to return 10 times to the producers outside the community and especially to the ones for whom it is just a business. Have we done enough Needs-based assessment? Have we determined what output is it going to bring to Sikh Community. We don’t need to measure only short-term benefits but should look towards long-term goals as well.

There is much more we can get into this, but I believe we need to first PAUSE here and think about above points first. So, I guess we’re back to where we started. Does one, Sikh movie deserve this constant overabundance of hype?

No matter, how educational, emotional the movies may be, we need to think from all angles and we need to limit the money spent. People may argue that its better to spend money watching such movies rather than spending same money on another bollywood movie portraying Sikhs as jokers…but lets even look at a wider picture. Something IS NOT ALWAYS better than NOTHING.

Pls think strategically considering Long term goals, think from Gursikhi point of view and then provide your feedback or comments.

Originally posted at: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/movie-chaar-sahibzaade-really-deserve-overhype/

The Punjab BJP & AAP has extended full support to the second hunger strike called by Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa, who has been fasting at Lakhnaur Sahib Gurdwara in Ambala for five days.

Punjab BJP spokesperson RP Singh Maini, who met Bhai Gurbaksh Singh at Lakhnaur Sahib, said as the Akalis had distanced themselves from the issues raised by the Sikh activist, the BJP had come forward to support him in his struggle to get Sikh prisoners, who had completed their term, released.

Maini said Punjab BJP chief Kamal Sharma had also spoken to Bhai Gurbaksh Singh over the phone, assuring him that the matter would be taken up with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

After the Punjab BJP, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has also extended its support to the campaign of Bhai Gurbakhash Singh Khalsa. Punjab convener of AAP, Sucha Singh Chhotepur, on Saturday and expressed solidarity with the cause.

The AAP leader asked Bhai Gurbaksh Singh about his health and expressed his support to the campaign in its every aspect.

Chottepur later also posted about Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa on his Facebook account.

Speaking to The Tribune, Bhai Gurbaksh Singh said in the last 10 months, he had met the Akal Takht jathedar eight times, seeking release of Sikh prisoners as was promised by him when he had ended his hunger strike at Mohali last year. But the jathedar had remained cynical to the demands, he said.

He said now he had pinned hope on the BJP governments in Haryana and the Centre. He said a delegation of Sikhs from the state would meet the Ambala Deputy Commissioner tomorrow and submit a memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Pranab Mukherjee, highlighting the plight of Sikhs prisoners in jails.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/bjp-aap-extends-support-bhai-gurbakhash-singh-khalsa/

As an alternate of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), old United Akali Dal, once headed by Baba Joginder Singh, was today revived its name as Sanyukt Akali Dal with the appointment of its convenor, general secretary and an adhoc committee.

Spokesperson of Damdami taksal, a Sikh educatinal institution, Bhai Mohkam Singh has been appointed as the convenor of new outfit whose 26 member ad-hoc committee was announced here today. Gurdeep Singh has been appointed as General Secretary.

While announcing the formation of the Sanyukt Akali Dal in a meeting held at Guru Nanak Bhawan here, Mr Singh said that the motive behind the formation of new Akali Dal was to free the Sikh institution from the clutches of Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister of Punjab.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/new-political-party-united-akali-dal-formed-punjab/

Ludhiana – In the 23rd Adutti Gurmat Sangeet Samellan 2014 organized by Jawaddi Taksal Renowned Kirtaniya Bhai Sarabjit Singh ji Rangila was awarded with Gurmat Sangeet Award 2014. Sant Giani Amir Singh, head of the Jawaddi Taksal, presented the award to Bhai Sarabjit Singh ji Rangila (Durg wale).

Bhai Sarbjit SIngh ‘Rangila’ of Durg is one of the finest exponents of Gurmat Sangeet today. He has been blessed with a beautiful voice which has been honed to perfection through years of Riyaz.

The Gurmat Sangeet Awards initiative was first started by Baba Sucha Singh ji, Founder of Jawaddi Taksal and the very first Gurmat Sangeet Award was honoured to Shiromani Ragi Bhai Balbir Singh ji from Amritsar.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/bhai-sarabjit-singh-rangila-honoured-gurmat-sangeet-award-2014/

At last following the footsteps of Madhya Pradesh and Delhi Govt, Punjab Government on Sunday announced exemption of entertainment tax on Chaar Sahibzaade, an animated Punjabi movie based on the life of four sons of the 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh.

The decision to sanction tax-free status for Punjabi movie directed by Harry Baweja was announced by Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal, who also holds the portfolio of Excise and Taxation Department.

Justifying the decision, Sukhbir said that the tax-free status was granted to this religious movie “to educate our present generation regarding unparalleled and supreme sacrifice of Chaar Sahibzaade’s of tenth Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh, who made supreme sacrifice for unity and integrity of the country and to ensure religious freedom to every citizen”.

He said that the Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party Government always encouraged Punjabi cinema that gave social and religious message for the upliftment of the society and would continue to encourage filmmakers to make movies on such subjects. He has issued orders to Excise and Taxation Commissioner to issue a notification in this regard with immediate effect.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/last-punjab-govt-exempted-entertainment-tax-chaar-sahizaade/

Local Australian Sikhs would protest in Sydney against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17th November at Sydney Olympic Park. The main objectives behind the protest are to exercise Freedom of Speech against gross failure of minority human rights in India

By holding the rein of power in its hand through Modi, RSS has started the speedy campaign to wipe out the distinct identity of minority nationalities, RSS has appointed Vai Sudarshan Rav as a head of Indian Historical Research Institute to distort the history of minority nationalities and rewrite the Indian history in mythological way.

To destroy the ever existing universal ideology of Sikhs, RSS in leadership of Modi has infiltrated in Sikh religious, social and academic institutes, thereby Brahminical regime has grabbed the respiratory cord of Khalsa

Mohan Bhagwat and Pravin Togdia, repeatedly suggest and threat minority nationalities to adopt Hinduism and they are uttering Nadirshahi edict to leave the country if not bow to Brahminism

All Australians are requested to come on to participate in the peaceful protest against Modi to exercise the given responsibilities by our ancestors to show the true face of fake, deceptive ideology being led by Modi, so that coming history does not blame us as fugitive of our duties and coward.

Details are as follows:-

Please contact:-

There will be buses from Glenwood and Revesby Gurdwaras at 4:30 pm.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/sydney-sikhs-hold-peaceful-protest-against-narendra-modi/

Makhu (Ferozepur): In fresh confrontation between Sikhs from ‘Ek Noor Khalsa Fauj‘ group and Dera Sacha Sauda activists known as Premis, atleast 9 were injured in a clash on Sunday.

The clash took place when Dera followers were going towards Mehmoodwala village to perform “Naam Charcha” which was opposed by the members of “Ek Noor Khalsa Fauj”. The Dera followers were stopped in between Jogewala and Mehmoodwala villages from going ahead which triggered the clash.

The two groups hurled stones at each other. Swords were also brandished as the situation soon became tense due to the clash between the two groups.

Sources said four members of “Ek Noor Khalsa Fauj” and five Dera followers were injured in the clash. They were taken to the civil hospital for treatment. According to some media reports, Some policemen also reportedly sustained minor injuries during the clash.

Police fired shots in air to disburse those indulging in violence. Heavy police force was deployed as well.

Deputy Commissioner DPS Kharbanda along with senior police officials held separate meetings with the two warring groups to normalise the situation.

Both the sides demanded registration of case against each other. The Dera followers sat on a protest, demanding registration of an FIR against the other group.

Eyewitnesses said the situation could have assumed alarming proportions had the administration not intervened at the right time.

The Deputy Commissioner said both the groups have been advised to exercise restraint and respect the sentiments of each other.

The injured, belonging to “Ek Noor Khalsa Fauj”, were identified as Mohkam Singh, Baaj Singh, Mangat Singh and Harnam Singh. Five “Premis” injured are Jarnail Singh, Major Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Kehar Singh and Kuldeep Singh.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/9-injured-as-sikhs-dera-sirsa-men-clash-in-makhu/

Chaar Sahibzaade based on the real life story of the sacrifice of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, is now declared tax free in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan the Chief Minister of MP, watched the first photo realistic film on the history of Sikhs and loved it. After watching the film Shivraj Singh Chauhan, chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, was so impressed with the film, he tweeted, “Sahibzaade film based on the sacrifice of brave sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji shall be tax free in Madhya Pradesh.”

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/chaar-sahibzaade-set-tax-free-madhya-pradesh/

Chandigarh – More than a year after young Engineering Student Jaspal Singh, was killed when the police opened fire to disperse peaceful protestors in Gurdaspur, a compensation of Rs 5 lakh has been given to his family. Another sum of Rs 2 lakh has been handed over to injured Ranjit Singh from the Chief Minister’s Fund. This was revealed as a petition filed in public interest on the issue came up for pronouncement this morning.

Disposing of the petition filed by NGO Lawyers for Human Rights International, a Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Ashutosh Mohunta and Justice Harinder Singh Sidhu refused to express opinion on the status report submitted in the matter, which said bullets were fired in the air.

The development took place after Navkiran Singh disputed the conclusions made in the status report “that no bullet was fired by targeting anybody and bullets were fired only in the air”. Speaking for the Bench, Justice Sidhu said: “It is not for this court to opine on the merits of the conclusion reached in the status report. It has been settled by the Supreme Court in a large number of cases that once the final report under Section 173 of the CrPC is submitted in a competent court, the matter is to proceed further as per the procedure laid down in the CrPC.”

Bhai Jaspal Singh was peacefully protesting against the impending execution of Balwant Singh Rajoana. The Bench asserted: “As per the procedure mandated by the SC, if the court of CJM, Gurdaspur, the competent court where the final report has been submitted, decides not to take cognisance of the offence and drop the proceedings, the concerned court must give notice to the informant and provide him an opportunity to be heard.”

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/punjab-govt-releases-rs-5-lakh-compensation-shaheed-bhai-jaspal-singh-family/

Chandigarh – In a significant development, Babbar Khalsa International Operational Head Rattandeep Singhon Thursday recorded a confession statement about his involvement in the bomb blast at Sector 34, dating back to 1999, and named Pakistan-based head of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF), Paramjeet Singh Panjwar, for masterminding the blast. He also stated during proceedings recorded on camera that Panjwar was smuggling heroin and smack into the state.

A remorseful and somewhat angry Rattandeep also disclosed before the Magistrate that he had taken training in Pakistan and was sent by Panjwar to execute the bomb blast in Sector 34 on July 3, 1999. “I have been manipulated. We, who executed the operations, are suffering, while our bosses are minting money. Panjwar has been smuggling a large amount of heroin and smack into Punjab. If Punjab is crippled with the drug menace today, it is because of Panjwar,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rattandeep Singh also disclosed that the recently held Jasbir Singh aka Jassa, another co-accused, who was arrested on November 9, had got him Rs 1 lakh prior to executing the blast.

The UT police had brought Rattandeep to Chandigarh on November 5, nearly 15 years after the blast.Rattandeep was first arrested by the Punjab Police on September 18. The Chandigarh Police had identified him on July 5, 1999 with the help of the scooter that he had used to plant the bomb. The blast had taken place in the parking lot near Regional Passport Office (RPO), Sector 34, on June 30, 1999. Four persons were critically injured and a dozen vehicles were damaged in the blast.

Rattandeep had escaped from the custody of the UT police in Jind on July 3, 1999. However, two others accused in the case, Sher Singh and Gurbakash Singh, were later arrested. While Sher Singh and Gurbaksh Singh were jailed for 10 years, Rattandeep was declared a Proclaimed Offender (PO).

Sources in the operations cell (anti-terrorist squad) of UT police said, “During interrogation, Rattandeep narrated the pathetic condition of extremists based in Pakistan and other foreign countries. Panjwar, head of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF), is now a builder in Pakistan and under acute pressure of ISI to revive terrorism in Punjab.” He also disclosed his links with Pakistan-based head of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), Ranjit Singh Neeta.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/rattandeep-confesses-panjwar-as-mastermind-of-chandigarh-blast-drug-smuggling-in-punjab-police-claims/

A series of arrests of terrorists by a Punjab military in new times has lifted a doubt symbol on their timing, generally in perspective of a souring family between a fondness partners in a state, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and a BJP.

Various domestic outfits pull this surmise formed on a remarks done by Punjab arch apportion Parkash Singh Badal during Sultanpur Lodhi recently, when he pronounced a fondness was poignant to safety a community harmony, assent and society in a state. Hence all efforts were being done to say a alliance, he added.

The Punjab military definitely forlorn such conjectures, observant there was zero domestic about a ongoing arrests, that is a slight practice to safeguard that pro-Khalistan elements didn’t settle their foothold or regroup themselves on Indian or unfamiliar soil.

The domestic parties in Punjab, however, see a settlement in a arrests and even try to couple these with a statements being done by Badal and other SAD spokespersons usually to keep a BJP in line.

Punjab Congress boss Partap Singh Bajwa pronounced Badal’s new matter that community assent and assent in a state could be confirmed usually if a fondness remained total was an denote of a recklessness in a arrange and record of a SAD.

“Moreover, a credit of a Punjab supervision and Punjab Police is during a lowest lessen now. It appears as if fear psychosis is being combined in a state among all communities for domestic gains,” pronounced Bajwa.CPI inhabitant executive member Joginder Dayal pronounced a timing of arrests and a statements of Badal and other Akali leaders observant that usually a fondness could safeguard a community assent in a state is “a worrying trend”.

He pronounced there was no fondness between a Akalis and a BJP before a terrorism engulfed Punjab or even during a uneasy times. Both domestic parties came tighten usually for domestic gains as Akalis knew they could use a BJP to constraint a civic opinion bank.

For a comparison member of AAP, Manjit Singh, it is a diversion devise of both a Akalis and a BJP to dope a voters. He pronounced a Akalis knew that even if a electorate forlorn them in a subsequent public polls, they could stay with a BJP and could share energy in a state. “I don’t have a specific explanation to doubt a new arrests of terrorists though people are articulate about a timing,” pronounced Manjit.

Sikh Relief/SOPW have also expressed their concern with the recent spate of arrests made by the Punjab Police in just a matter of weeks.

ADGP (intelligence) Hardeep Singh Dhillon pronounced a arrests of a anti-national elements from India and abroad had been an ongoing process. The military had been successful in violation many apprehension modules given 2012 with a assistance of executive comprehension agencies, he said.

Sources in a military suggested that after being suffocated in European countries such as Germany, Austria and a United Kingdom, and also in north American countries such as Canada and a US, a pro-Khalistan elements changed to south-east Asian countries such as Malaysia and Thailand for protected havens.

DGP of Punjab Police Sumedh Saini, has been overseeing the whole operation aimed at catching those ‘wanted’ persons who have managed to escape abroad fearing for their lives and knowing they will not get a fair trial or recourse to justice.

Sikh organisations around the world have also expressed their grave concern about these arrests and the ‘interrogation’ tactics used by the Police. Earlier today, Punjabi newspapers reported that a source from within the police had said, Sumedh Saini himself would lead the interrogation of Harminder Singh ‘Mintu’ and Saini had threatened to ‘do away with him’ in a fake encounter.

* 17th September – Rattandeep Singh is arrested from the state of Uttar Pradesh and has been implicated in many cases.

* 6 November – Ramandeep Singh ‘Goldy’ was deported from Malaysia and arrested upon landing in Chennai. Cases have been registered against him under the Arms & Explosives Act and the Unlawful Activities Act. DGP Sumedh Saini, immediately announces promotions by way of reward, for the 2 arresting police officers.

* 7th November – Harminder Singh ‘Mintu’ is arrested from Delhi Airport along with his close associate, Gurpreet Singh ‘Gopi’. Mintu has been framed in 10 cases and has been dubbed as a ‘top catch’ by the police.

* 9th November – Jasbir Singh, who police claim is a close associate of Rattandeep Singh, is arrested by Chabal Police in Tarn Taran. Also, Ramandeep Singh ‘Sunny’ is arrested in Bathinda. He worked at an Auto Electrical Store and lived with his grandmother and aunt, as he was orphaned as a child. His family say he is a hardworking and honest boy who is being ‘set up’ by the Police. His elderly grandmother said he left for work on the morning of the 9th and she hasn’t seen him since.

The police claim these arrests will lead to more catches and that they are only just piecing together the whole story. The reality more likely is, they are fabricating the plots, which they will use to ensnare more innocent Sikhs who will be thrown into the vicious cycle of fighting their cases through the courts, whilst continuing to languish in jail.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/recent-arrests-called-khalistani-terrorists-raise-eyebrows/

Today marks the Shaheedi Diwas of Dhan Baba Deep Singh ji Shaheed

Here is the glimpse of Baba ji's life.

Salute to great Sikh Warrior Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji

EARLY LIFE:

Baba Deep singh was born on the 20th January 1682 A.D. in the village of Pahuwind in district of Amritsar. His parents, Bhai Bhagtu Ji and Mata Jeonee Ji, lived in the village of Pahuwind, Amritsar, India. They were hard working Sikh farmers but had not been blessed with any children. A Sikh saint told them one day that they would have a special child whom they should name Deep (meaning one who gives light). Baba Deep Singh Ji was born to them on January 26, 1682 (14 Maagh Sunmat 1739). Since Deep was an only child, his parents raised him with much devotion and affection. He went to Anandpur on the Vaisakhi of 1700 A.D., where after obtaining baptism (into Sikhism) he started learning weaponry and riding from the Sikhs. From Bhai Mani singh he began learning reading and writing Gurmukhi and interpretation of Guru’s word. After spending two years at the Guru’s institution, he returned to his village in 1702 A.D. got married and started living there.

MEETING WITH GURU GOBIND SINGH JI

Baba Deep Singh Ji met Guru Gobind Singh Ji again at Damdama Sahib in Talwandi. Here, he learned that two of the Guru’ sons, Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh, had lost their lives in the battle of Chamkaur. Guru Ji also told him that his two younger sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, were cruelly murdered at the city of Sirhind under the orders of the Muslim governor, Wazir Khan.

He went to Guru Gobind Singh at Talwandi Sabo in 1705 AD where he helped Bhai Mani singh in making copies of Guru Granth sahib. After the Guru sahib left for Delhi, he took up the service of looking after Gurudwara Damdama sahib.

On its completion, Baba Deep Singh Ji hand wrote five more copies of the holy scriptures. Four copies were sent to Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Sri Takht Patna Sahib, Sri Takht Hazur Sahib, and Sri Takht Anandpur Sahib. Another copy was prepared by Baba Deep Singh Ji in Arabic script and sent to the Middle East.

BATTLES FOUGHT BY BABA DEEP SINGH JI SHAHEED

In 1709 A.D., he joined Baba Banda singh Bahadur in chastising the tyrants of Sadhaura and Sirhind. in 1733 A.D. Nawab Kapoor singh Singhpuria appointed him a leader of one squad. On Vaisakhi day of 1748 A.D., when Dal Khalsa was reorganized into twelve misls, he was entrusted with the leadership of Shaheedan Misl. In April 1757 A.D., Abdali during his fourth invasion was returning to Kabul from Delhi with precious booty and young men and women as captives, Singhs made a plan to rob him of the valuables and set the prisoners free. The squad of Baba Deep singh was deployed near Kurukshetra. His squad freed large number of prisoners and lightened the burden of valuables of Abdali considerably. While departing from Lahore, Abdali appointed his son Taimur Shah, the Governor of Lahore and told him, “Try to finish the Sikhs”. In Accordance with his orders Taimur Shah started demolishing Gurudwaras and filling the holy pools with debris.

When Baba Deep singh came to know of the demolition of Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), he narrated it to the congregation of Damdama Sahib and said, “Diwali will be celebrated at Amritsar this year.” Five hundred Singhs came forward to go with him. Baba Deep Singh offered prayers before starting for Amritsar, “My head may fall at Harmandir Sahib.” By the time squad reached Taran Tarn the number of Singhs going with Baba Deep singh reached approximately Five thousand.

SHAHEEDI

At the news of the approach of Singhs, the Governor of Lahore sent his general with an army of Twenty thousand to face them. His army took up positions Six miles north of Amritsar and waited for the Singhs there. Both the armies clashed near Gohalwar on the 11th November, 1757 A.D. Fighting bravely Singhs pushed the army back and reached village Chabba where General Attal Khan came forward and inflicted a blow on Baba Deep Singh ji which made his neck lean to one side. A Sikh reminded him, “You had resolved to reach the periphery of the pool.” On hearing the talk of the Sikh, he supported his head with his left hand and removing the enemies from his way with the strokes of his double-edged sword with his right hand, reached the periphery of Harmandir Sahib where he breathed his last. The Singhs celebrated the Diwali of 1757 A.D. in Harmandir Sahib.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2013/11/baba-deep-singh-ji-shaheed/

1 Submission to the Will of God (WAHEGURU)

Guru Nanak Dev ji gave the message of “Hukam Rajayee Chalna Nanak Likheya Naal“. Guru Nanak Dev ji says that everything happens by God’s Grace, so Rest assured that God knows better what is right or wrong for us. We should, therefore, accept His decisions without any grudge or question.

2. There is One God

Guru Nanak Dev ji said, ” I am neither Hindu Nor Muslim, I am a follower of god”, which actually spoke about his belief in one god. In Sikhism, the god is omnipresent, shapeless, timeless, and sightless. ( Nirankar, akar, alakh). Sikhism stress that, before creation there was God, and because of His will ( Hukam), the Illusion ( maya of attachment and enticement) came into being. The God in Sikhism is not male/female, and can only be seen through inward eye. Guru Nanak Dev ji explained one thing clearly that there is only One who gives to Everyone and we should not forget to Him. The Guru stressed that full knowledge of god is impossible in human form.

3. Goodwill for all – SARBAT DAA BHALAA

Guru Nanak dev ji passed the message of Universal brotherhood. He said that religion is not mere consistence of words but actually looks all men and women equally. Universal brotherhood is a strong theme in Gurbani written by Guru Nanak Dev ji. In our prayer, we say this line towards the end of daily Ardaas – “Nanak Naam Chardi Kala Tere Bhane Sarbat da bhala”, which can be translated as “Nanak asks for ‘Naam’ (name of God) with which comes well being, happiness and positive spirit and with your blessings, Lord may everyone in the world prosper and be in peace“ or can be broken down as:

Nanak, With Naam comes Chardi Kala and with your blessings, may there be peace for all

We request Him for the welfare of the whole humanity and not just of our community or our family alone.

4. SACH SUNAISI SACH KEE BELA – (to speak the truth)

Guru Nanak Dev Ji told in front of King Babar “You are not Babar but JABAR”. We should always speak the truth without any fear. According to the Guru’s doctrine, the victory of truth is not dependent on ending or suppressing falsehood but in standing firmly by truth. That is why Guru Nanak Dev ji exhorts that to stick to truth and to remain on the side of truth when it is necessary is very essential –

5. SEWA AND SIMRAN

Guru Nanak says that no one can save anybody else. It is only Guru who guides us to safety, and to be saved, one have to follow the right path of SEWA and SIMRAN told by him. Further the Guru is not to be found in big palaces, he lives with poor. Let us love the poor, God will bless us. If we recite Gurbani with love, we will find the Guru is speaking to us. We have been reminded of his observations many times in our life. When we barely make both ends meet, we are usually sincerely devoted to GURBANI and the Sikh way of life. But when we have excess money to spend on worldly pleasures we follow vices and ignore the real mission of human life. DHARAM is usually the first casualty when we become rich. About SEWA Gurbani explains: (In the midst of this world, do SEWA and you shall be given a place of honour in the Court of the Lord)

6 The three Principals

• Vand Chako: Sharing with others, helping those with less who are in need
• Kirat Karo: Earning/making a living honestly, without exploitation or fraud
• Naam Japna: Chanting the Holy Name and thus remembering God at all times (ceaseless devotion to God)

7 Shun five Evils

GuruNanak Dev Ji asked his followers to shun five evils which leads to illusion ( maya) which eventually acts as roadblock towards attainment of salvation. The five evils are

Ego, Anger, Greed, Attachment and Lust.

8 Importance of Guru

Guru Nanak Dev ji lay great emphasis on having the importance of Guru in one’s life. He put forward the thought that salvation occurs not from pilgrimage or rites etc, but through heart, spirit and soul. For this to happen continuous seeking of knowledge must take place which is dependent on one’s guru. Guru according to him is the voice of the god, the true source of knowledge and salvation.

9. No Discrimination

Guru Nanak Dev ji was strongly against all artificially created divisions and all discrimination, both in word and deed. He said that the caste of a person is based on what he does. His idea of a caste-free society transpired also in his concepts of Sangat and Pangat.

10. Against Rituals/Superstitions

Guru Nanak Dev Ji preached against superstitions, false rituals, worship of demi-gods and goddesses. He stressed that only One God, the Formless, is to be glorified. In this way, he showed the path of truth and enlightenment.

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/top-10-key-lessons-teachings-from-guru-nanak-dev-ji-life/

Yoddha is the latest Punjabi movie with a huge star-cast. The Sadda Haq famed Kuljinder Singh Sidhu is back again with one fine Punjabi film.

Yoddha is a fast paced movie packed with action sequences and some very good with huge appeal dialogues. Kuljinder Singh Sidhu is really the man to watch in the movie he packs a punch with every dialogue and Rahul Dev is impeccable in the movie and other just stars have lend a great job with the film. The action director Mahendra Verma have done a great job with film.

The Movie no doubt is a great Pollywood movie but the way its getting popularity as a Sikh Movie, Lets see how far the movie have gone with that.

For some though it MIGHT NOT be a BIG or Small issue, but as a Sikh the movie cant be rated as a family movie. There have been so many scenes shown in this Punjabi movie where the movie characters have been smoking. The movie industry [should] treat smoking like it treats profanity and sex and violence. It was sad to see Dinesh Soodh (even though he is not a Sikh but producing Sikh Movies) smoking in his small Guest appearance role in the movie. There has already been going a lot to even ban smoking in Bollywood movies, so in that instance screening Smoking scenes in a Pollywood movie (with some touch on Sikhi Corner) is really a big question mark on this movie?

Moving further, the movie is basically shown as a revenge movie where an ordinary NRI person Ronnie turns to Ranjodh Singh after meeting with Singhs of Damdami Taksal Jatha. The movie portrays how the character playing Shingara Singh, the chief of Damdami Taksal Jatha in the movie motivates and teaches Ronnie to take Amrit di daat and become Ranjodh Singh. However when Ranjodh Singh alias Ronnie goes back to him saying that “Baba ji mein badla lena chahunda han (Baba ji, I want to take revenge)”, there are no concerns raised by the Shingara Singh and instead encourages him further. The fight of Ranjodh Singh has purely been shown up as a personal revenge rather than a fight against Tyranny.

As par Sikhism, To raise the sword after all peaceful means have been exhausted also speak to the ideal of justice, in which a stepwise process is taken up to attempt to exact justice by all available means possible. Guru Gobind Singh Ji dispatched Bhai Gurbaksh Singh (Banda Singh Bahadur) when he knew that no punishment would ever be meted out to the perpetrators of the war crime against the Chhote Sahibzadae – the crime was the mercilessly torture and killing of children, which is a violation of any religious ethic. So in that context this is a question if such a person can be called “Yoddha” in Sikhi?

The Last fight scene of the movie was the most disturbing. The movie shows that before taking on Rahul Dev, Kuljinder Sidhu removes his Vest and also take off Gatra and keeps it aside after Matha Tek. This was really disturbing as why the Gatra needed to be removed off? For an Amritdhari Sikh, his kakars goes with him till the end of his life.

To summarize, Yoddha is a much better attempt to show turbaned Sikhs on the Big Screen , however the movie and the characters especially Kuljinder Sidhu should not be taken as Sikh Models. They are simply Movie characters and are playing their characters only. They might be doing a great job at screen to better portray as Sikhi characters but Remember

Source: http://singhstation.net/2014/11/review-yodha-warrior-punjabi-film-sikhi-perspective/

AMRITSAR: AISSF President Karnail Singh Peermohammad, 1984 Genocide victim and witness Bibi Jagdish Kaur, Bibi Manjit Kaur, head sewadar of Bhai Fauja Singh Trust along with 50 people have been rounded up by the police here today from the city Bus Stand when they were attempting to prevent State Transport buses to hit on roads. All India Sikh Students Federation (AISSF) and Sikh Students Federation Mehta (SSF) gave a call for ‘Punjab Bandh” on November 1st.

Decrying the move, Bibi Jagdish Kaur said “We wanted to observe this day as a Black Day today after 30 years in a peaceful manner to give the message that we haven’t got justice. But what kind of justice is this that they picked up people and put them in police vans and arrested them. We wanted all religions and the political parties to support our silent protest.”

“The government is really the culprit and is to be blamed. They have kept our hopes alive with fake promises. And today we were protesting in a peaceful manner but were arrested for which the government is also to be blamed,” she added.

Taking a strong exception to the arrests of AISSF President Karnail Singh Peermohammad and Bibi Jagdish Kaur by the Badal government, “Sikhs For Justice” (SFJ) a US based human rights group gave a call to boycott the members of the SAD (Badal) during their planned visits to North America and European Union.

“The arbitrary arrests of victims who planned to highlight the denial of justice and impunity to those who organized 1984 killing of Sikhs has exposed the SAD (Badal) which have been just using the issue of Sikh genocide to garner votes during elections. The Badal government’s action on 30th year of Sikh Genocide clearly defines why justice has eluded the 1984 victims for the last thirty years” stated attorney Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Legal Advisor, SFJ.

It is notable that despite arrests of prominent leaders, Amritsar city witnessed complete shut down today. According to areport by Hindustan Times, rail traffic remained normal till afternoon, however the city witnessed total bandh as educational institutions, shops and most of commercial establishments remained closed.

http://singhstation.net/2014/11/punjab-bandh-call-aissf-president-karnail-singh-peermohammad-bibi-jagdish-kaur-arrested/

Halloween and All Saints day are poignant reminders to Sikhs of the 1984 Delhi Massacre. Many thousands of Sikhs lost their lives in the Delhi riots following the assassination of Indira Ghandi in retaliation for her 1984 June attack on the Sikhs in the Golden Temple.

On October 31, 1984, marauding mobs bent on mayhem and murder caroused through the streets carrying clubs, knives, and kerosene randomly killing Sikhs. On November 1, 1984, the rioting spread like flames being fanned by a hot wind. The carnage lasted four days before efforts were made to bring the bloodshed under control. Police looked the other way or stood by watching innocent families butchered. No one has ever been held accountable.

On this day, Indira Gandhi was executed by Shaheed Beant Singh and Shaheed Satwant Singh. Since Indira Gandhi died on Halloween Day, 1984, as a punishment for all the terrible things she did, we believe she was turned by the gods and goddesses of India into Indiro, the Wicked Witch of the East. She now forever roams around in the dark of the night, riding her broom, looking for Sikhs to apologize to.

But on Halloween night, she specially comes up to the surface from the hell below, and she can be seen and heard hiding and cackling in the trees, if you look very close.

We now commemorate the victory of good over evil in celebrating Indiro’s annual journey from hell and back to hell every Halloween by making Indro masks and dressing up like her – the Wicked Witch of the East – and haunting the neighbourhood.

On this day, we should remember the sacrifice of our Shaheeds for the Sikh nation and perhaps celebrate the fact that such people have existed (and We believe still exist) among those in Guru Khalsa Panth.

Happy Halloween Day to all Sikhs

http://singhstation.net/2014/10/halloween-day-sikh-genocide-1984/