In a development that could have far-reaching effects on Sikh polity, the Dal Khalsa and Shiromani Khalsa Dal have resolved to come closer with an aim to infuse new life in the self-determination movement. The announcement was made at a joint convention held on the eve of Hollaha Mohala, a symbol of Charhdi Kala. Heads of both  the parties vowed to carry on with their mission to attain independence. Underlining the growing unrest amongst Sikhs because of the incompetent and incapable leadership of the Shiromani Akali Dal, both the groups decided in principle to unite under single entity to provide new platform for their fellow brethren.

Mr Daljit Singh Bittu, president of the Shiromani Khalsa Dal and Bhai Satnam Singh (Paonta Sahib), president of the Dal Khalsa in a joint statement said there was a need to instill pride in Sikh youths of their traditions, heritage and history.  We would take the community forward by utilizing every available means. Our courage of conviction remains undiminished, said  both in a spirited tone. “We knew our time would come”.

Damdami Taksal chief Baba Harnam Singh who was present on the dais appreciated the unity move. He honoured family members of those martyrs who perished during the course of struggle. Speaker after speakers targeted those forces that were hell bent to damage and destroy the unique identity of the Sikhs.

Harcharanjit Singh Dhami, former president of the Dal Khalsa termed Parkash Singh Badal as “super cat” of the state who had damaged the interests of the Sikhs to get power for himself and his son. The two-day march that began from Akal Takht to boast the confidence of Sikh youths’ culminated at Kesgarh Sahib on March 14.

The convention passed certain resolutions criticizing the state for attempting to crush the democratic movement of the Sikhs. The news story telecasted by ZEE channel was came in for criticism by the speakers. “It was engineered by a lobby that intend to malign the image of the Sikhs”, reads another resolution. The convention urged the Indian government to implement Anand marriage Act. It also appealed to Sikhs to register their marriages under Special Marriage Act instead of Hindu Marriage Act.

The convention urged the Indian Prime Minister to allow Amnesty International and Asia Human Rights Watch to visit Punjab to investigate into the disappearance of Sikh youth and those who were killed extra-judicially by counter-insurgents as admitted by Punjab DGP. The convention condemned the state for arresting Dr Jagjit Singh Chauhan and Kanwar Singh Dhami in a seditious case.