Rupnagar, Jul 29 (PTI) Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday said Punjab’s tradition of communal harmony and brotherhood remains its greatest strength, and asserted that people of all faiths celebrate every festival together. He added that no seed of hatred can ever take root in the state.
He was addressing a gathering of devotees during a religious event ‘Ek Sham Bhagwan Shiv Ke Naam’ bhajan sandhya.
“It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction for me to participate in this state-level function filled with religious enthusiasm, joy and devotion. The state government has deliberately chosen this sacred land for this mega event because it is a land of rich heritage, culture and spirituality.
“Celebrating this holy occasion here reflects
our deep respect for our cultural and religious roots,” Mann said.
Emphasising his government’s commitment to social harmony, Mann said his government is committed to fostering peace, communal harmony and brotherhood in the state.
“We are walking on the path of righteousness shown by the great Gurus, saints, seers and prophets. Our focus is on empowering Punjab’s youth through quality education and skills so they can build a bright future.
“Anything can germinate on Punjab’s fertile soil, but the seeds of hatred can never grow on this sacred land,” he said.
Referring to the Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra Yojana, Mann said this scheme enables devotees to undertake free pilgrimages to Sri Harmandir Sahib, Durgiana Mandir, Bhagwan Valmiki Teerath Sthal, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Naina Devi Ji and other sacred sites.
The scheme has now been expanded to include free ‘teerath’ to Haridwar, Khatu Shyam Ji Maharaj, Salasar Balaji and other holy places, he said.
He added, “The scheme is open to people of all castes, religions, income groups and regions, and pilgrims do not have to spend a single penny.” PTI CHS MNK MNK
