M A I N   N E W S

Sikh radicals lie low
Harbans Singh Virdi
Tribune News Service

Lahore, June 15
No raising khalistans slogans, no distribution of any such literature propagating their ideology: that has been the scene at the Dera Sahib Gurdwara in Lahore over the past two days.

So much so that Sikh radical groups have put no banners either in or outside the gurdwara. In the past, such occasions were used to lure the Sikh pilgrims from India. However, this time, it has been a period of peace and tranquility. But at the same time religious festivities continue full blast at the shrine.

“Bhog” of “Akhand Path” will be performed tomorrow at 8 a.m., according to Mr S.S. Sabherwal, leader of the Jatha.

Today, the Sikh Jatha paid homage to two Sikh shrines connected with Guru Nanak Dev and one to Bhai Lalo, Guru’s devoted follower. All these gurdwaras are located in Eminab 56 km from Lahore. The odd 150-member Jatha, to the shouts of ‘Bole So Nihal Sat Sri Akal’, drove in four A.C. buses. The first halt was Roari Sahib Gurdwara where Bhai Lalo lived. Guru Nanak visited Lalo during the first udasi (long missionary tour) and meditated at the place. The gurdwara derives its name from pebbles on which Guru Nanak Dev had made the bed. Due to Guru Nanak’s visit, it became a place of great veneration.