Shaheedi Sabhas turn into political stages

Fatehgarh Sahib's Shaheedi Jor Mela, one of the most significant religious congregations in Punjab's calendar, once again witnessed a heavy political and administrative presence this year, underlining how large scale religious commemorations are increasingly doubling up as platforms for governance display and political signalling.

- TARUNI GANDHI

The three day mela, held to commemorate the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh's Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri, saw top political leaders from Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, senior bureaucrats, and police officials making coordinated appearances, alongside formal announcements on security, transport and health arrangements.

Politicians' participation Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann paid obeisance at Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib and personally reviewed the arrangements for the mela. Mann held a media briefing ahead of the main congregation, outlining the state government's preparations and directing departments to ensure smooth conduct of the event.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini also visited Fatehgarh Sahib during the mela and paid obeisance along with a delegation from the Bharatiya Janata Party. BJP Punjab working president Ashwani Sharma was part of the delegation that bowed in reverence at the shrine.