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6d ago

Centre Orders Veer Bal Diwas Activities in Schools After Renaming Demands Rebuffed

The directive underscores a youth-focused commemoration, with calls from Sikh institutions to rename the day still unresolved.

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The Union ministry has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the main event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Friday. (Picture only for representational purpose)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah being welcomed by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on his arrival in Haryana. (PTI)
Akal Takht acting jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has called a meeting of Sikh clergy on December 28 to discuss the issue

Overview

  • The Department of School Education and Literacy directed all states and union territories to run age-grouped competitions on Friday in every school, including drawing and storytelling for ages 3–6, essays and painting for 6–10, and essays, poems, debates and digital presentations for 11–18.
  • In a December 22 communication, the ministry said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the main event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Friday.
  • Despite requests from the Akal Takht, Shiromani Akali Dal, several MPs and Sikh scholars to rename the observance to Sahibzadey Shahadat Diwas, the Centre has not agreed to change the name.
  • Punjab BJP spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawal cited 2018–2019 statements by Sukhbir Singh Badal and Harsimrat Kaur Badal endorsing the 'Bal Diwas' terminology, accusing the Akali Dal of political posturing.
  • Akal Takht acting jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj has convened Sikh clergy on December 28 to discuss the issue, while Harsimrat Kaur Badal criticized recent government advertisements on Veer Bal Diwas as violating Sikh principles.