Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], December 26 (ANI): Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao and other leaders paid tributes at Telangana BJP State headquarters at Nampally in Hyderabad on the occasion of Veer Baal Diwas here on Friday.

Ramachander Rao emphasised that Veer Baal Diwas is not just a day of remembrance but also a significant day to reaffirm India's enduring values of courage, righteousness (Dharma), and resolve to stand against injustice. Rao addressed devotees and members of the Sikh community who participated in a special programme held at the Secunderabad Gurudwara on the occasion of Veer Baal Divas. He paid rich tributes to the supreme sacrifices of the Veer Sahibzades--Sahibzada Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Baba Fateh Punjab Singh Ji. He stated that the martyrdom of the Veer Sahibzades was one of the most inspiring chapters in the history of Indian civilisation. He remarked that their sacrifice serves as an eternal reminder that age is no bar to bravery and that the highest values of faith, honour, and resistance against oppression can be manifested even at a very young age. The state BJP chief highlighted the NDA government's commitment, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, to the Sikh community. He clarified that since 2014, the union government has been working with unprecedented dedication for the welfare, dignity, and empowerment of Sikhs. Rao noted that the decisive steps taken by the Modi government to provide justice to the victims of the 1984 anti-sikh riots were crucial. These actions, he said, have finally brought long-awaited justice and accountability to the affected families. He also mentioned key schemes like the Seva Bhoj Yojna, which exempts food items used for Langar from GST with an annual cost of Rs 325 crore. This scheme reimburses Central GST and IGST on food items used in Langars, providing significant support to Gurudwaras that serve free meals to nearly one crore people daily, he said, adding that the historic Kartarpur Corridor, which allows year-round access to the holy shrine of Kartarpur Sahib, has fulfilled a long-cherished dream of the Sikh community. Rao remarked that all these measures reflect PM Narendra Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas,' steering the country forward while respecting the faith, heritage, and aspirations of every community. On this occasion, he also appreciated the services of Minority Morcha President Jagmohan Singh for his efforts in strengthening the connection and understanding with the Sikh community. Rao urged every Indian to practice the values of courage, service, and national unity reflected in the legacy of the Veer Sahibzades. (ANI)