Moga: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday emphasised that harmony between Hindus and Sikhs is essential for the development of Punjab while addressing a large gathering at the Bharatiya Janata Party’s “Badlav Rally” in Moga.
Arriving at the rally wearing a saffron turban, Shah was greeted by enthusiastic supporters and party workers. As he began his speech, he invoked traditional Sikh and national slogans, including “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
The rally was organised as part of the party’s efforts to strengthen its base in Punjab ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Call for BJP government in Punjab
During his address, Shah urged supporters to take a “Vijay Sankalp” or pledge for victory to bring a Bharatiya Janata Party government to power in the state.
He said unity between the Hindu and Sikh communities forms the foundation of Punjab’s stability and progress. According to Shah, such unity, combined with what he described as a “double-engine government” — referring to the BJP ruling both at the Centre and in the state — would help tackle key issues including the drug problem and border security.
Promise of strict anti-conversion law
The Union Minister also said that if the BJP forms the government in Punjab, it would introduce a strong law to curb forced religious conversions. Referring to the teachings and sacrifices of the Sikh Gurus, he said they had stood firmly against such practices.
Shah also spoke about steps taken by the central government to protect Sikh religious sites located outside India, including the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor for pilgrims visiting the shrine associated with Guru Nanak.
Opposition leaders criticised
During the rally, Shah criticised the Indian National Congress, accusing it of creating divisions between communities in the past and failing to effectively challenge the current state government.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu also addressed the gathering and said the large turnout reflected growing support for the BJP in Punjab. He alleged that the financial policies of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government had pushed the state into economic difficulties.
State BJP leaders highlight law and order concerns
Punjab BJP leaders also used the platform to highlight issues such as drug addiction and law and order in the state. State BJP chief Sunil Jakhar said strong leadership was needed to restore public confidence and claimed that only a BJP-led administration could address the state’s challenges.
Another party leader, Ashwani Sharma, urged the Home Minister to intervene in what he described as the worsening law and order situation in the state.
The rally, attended by thousands of supporters, was seen as a major political mobilisation effort by the BJP as it seeks to expand its influence in Punjab ahead of upcoming elections.
