'Those Calling For Hindu Rashtra Should Also Be Booked Under NSA': Akal Takht Jathedar Demands Release Of 'Sikh Youths' Arrested During Amritpal's Crackdown

The Akal Takht criticized the Bhagwant Mann government and the Center for the Punjab Police's crackdown on Khalistani preacher Amritpal Singh. They questioned why those who demand a Hindu Rashtra are not facing similar action.

Giani Harpreet Singh, Akal Takht jathedar, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Punjab's government regarding the release of 'Sikh youths' apprehended in a crackdown against a Khalistani preacher.

In a meeting of Sikh intellectuals, lawyers, journalists, religious and social leaders, he addressed the situation in Punjab.

The Akal Takht is the Sikhs' highest authority, and its Jathedar serves as their top spokesperson.

Asked why the National Security Act (NSA) was used for those supporting Khalistan, the speaker questions why the same penalty isn't applied to those calling for a Hindu Rashtra, which has numerous supporters.

"There are lakhs who demand Hindu rashtra. Those who are calling for Hindu Rashtra should also be booked .They should also be booked under NSA," he said.

Chief Minister Mann has requested the state police to release those in preventive custody, but with a warning that individuals who disturb the peace will be dealt with severely. Anyone not involved in anti-national activity will be released.

197 out of the 353 people in preventive custody were released, said the Punjab Police.

The Akal Takht jathedar urged for peaceful resolution and diplomacy in response to the recent arrests of youths. After Baisakhi, the Akal Takht plans to address this issue globally. "We will tell them what is being done to us," he said.

The Akal Takht jathedar has accused news channels of defaming the Sikh community and setting a negative narrative through probe agencies. "The hate propaganda done by news channels. We must book the news channels. Are we terrorists?", he added.