By Our Staff Reporter
DEHRADUN, 10 May: In light of the current national scenario, an interfaith conference was organized on Saturday at Raj Bhavan, Dehradun. The event witnessed the participation of Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd), Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and representatives of all major religions, who came together to express their collective commitment to the unity and integrity of the nation.
On the occasion, the Governor stated that the gathering is a reflection of our shared responsibility towards the nation. He said, “Today, we all stand united—transcending the boundaries of religion, caste, and creed—like our soldiers at the border, embodying the soul of India.”
Speaking as a former soldier, the Governor emphasized that a soldier’s greatest strength is their family, their nation, and their morale. He added that this interfaith gathering is symbolic of strengthening the morale of our armed forces.
Lt Gen Singh highlighted the essential message of all religions, emphasizing unity and compassion. “Hinduism teaches ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’ (May all be happy), Sikhism advocates oneness, Buddha urged us to ‘Be our own light,’ Jainism teaches that non-violence is the supreme religion. Islam speaks against division, and Christianity says that peacemakers are the children of God. All these teachings promote unity, peace, and compassion,” he said.
The Governor also mentioned that through Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces are striking hard against terrorism and its sponsors. He lauded the efforts of Colonel Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who are actively sharing updates from the operation and representing India’s empowered women force.
The Chief Minister stated that Uttarakhand’s land has always exemplified patriotism, sacrifice, and devotion to the nation. “Our brave soldiers have upheld the nation’s pride in every struggle. We must now stand firmly with them. Avoid falling prey to misinformation and remain cautious about content on social media. Follow government advisories responsibly,” he urged.
Pushkar Singh Dhami also noted that Pakistan is trying to impose war on India to divert attention from its own internal chaos, hunger, and instability. “Their intent is not just to hide domestic failures but to gain international sympathy and financial aid under the pretense of war. However, in recent days, our Armed forces have successfully foiled several attempted aerial attacks and have responded by strategically destroying Pakistan’s military bases and terrorist camps. Our forces remain resolute in their commitment to safeguarding the nation in all circumstances,” he said.
On this occasion, Swami Chidanand Muni of Parmarth Niketan stated that though our methods of worship may differ, our devotion is unified in service to the nation. Shadab Shams, Chairperson of Uttarakhand Waqf Board, stated that there is no country more beautiful than India and that we are all children of Bharat Mata.
Other dignitaries who shared their thoughts included Buddhist leader Sonam Chogyal, Brother Joseph M. Joseph, and Sardar Gurbaksh Singh Rajan, all of whom prayed for the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India. Also present were Secretary to the Governor Ravinath Raman, Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari, followers of various faiths, and social activists.
