Jammu, March 29, 2025 – Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surinder Kumar Choudhary, attended the annual Jod Mela and Gurmat Samagam at Gurudwara Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji in Khour, R S Pura, on Friday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of the Sikh community with urgency and sincerity. The vibrant event, held in the Jammu division, drew a large gathering of devotees, community leaders, and dignitaries, celebrating the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.
During his address, Choudhary emphasised the timeless teachings of the Sikh Gurus, urging the Sangat to uphold their legacy of compassion, unity, and justice. “The government stands resolute in its dedication to resolving the issues faced by our communities,” he stated, highlighting the administration’s focus on fostering inclusivity and progress in Jammu and Kashmir. His presence at the Jod Mela underscored the significance of this annual festival, which honours the martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh Ji, a revered figure in Sikh history known for his bravery and devotion.
The event also served as a platform for Sikh community leaders to voice pressing demands. S. Ranjit Singh Tohra, President of the District Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee Jammu, and S. Ranvir Singh, Joint Secretary of DGPC Jammu, delivered religious discourses, shedding light on social challenges and outlining key issues faced by the Sikh populace. Among the prominent demands raised were the recognition of Punjabi as an official language of the Union Territory, the introduction of Punjabi as an optional subject in schools, and an increase in the availability of Punjabi teachers to preserve linguistic heritage. Additionally, calls for the establishment of a Minority Commission to safeguard community rights echoed through the gathering.
The Jod Mela saw the participation of notable figures, including DGPC members S. Avtar Singh, S. Karan Singh Bali, and S. Gurmeet Singh, alongside other dignitaries such as Rattan Lal Gupta and Rakesh Singh. The event, steeped in tradition, featured prayers, kirtan, and communal activities, reflecting the spirit of unity and reverence that defines the occasion.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to navigate its evolving socio-political landscape, the Deputy Chief Minister’s participation in the Jod Mela reinforces the government’s outreach efforts. The administration’s pledge to prioritise community welfare, coupled with the cultural resonance of the festival, offers a glimpse of hope for a more inclusive future in the region.