Union Minister Amit Shah Calls for End to Religious Conversions in Punjab

Punjab, March 2, 2026 — India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday urged authorities and citizens in Punjab to halt what he described as religious conversions motivated by “greed,” appealing for collective action from both society and the State government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

Addressing the ‘Hind-Di-Chadar’ commemorative programme marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Mr. Shah reflected on the Sikh Guru’s sacrifice as a witness to religious freedom and fidelity of conscience.

“Religious conversion is said to be taking place in Punjab,” he stated. “Guru Tegh Bahadur sacrificed himself to defend the faith of others. If we choose conversion for material gain, we cannot claim to follow our great leaders. Punjab’s government and society must work together to end such practices.”

The senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party described the Guru’s martyrdom as a decisive moment in protecting religious identity and courageously resisting oppression. Responding to criticism of his remarks, he maintained that the historical significance of the Guru’s sacrifice should be widely acknowledged.

Paying tribute, Mr. Shah said Guru Tegh Bahadur endured severe injustice and stood steadfast before powerful adversaries. “His witness inspired courage among people to continue their struggle,” he said.

He also recalled the spiritual legacy of Guru Nanak, highlighting teachings centred on prayer, remembrance of God, and communal sharing of meals as sources of unity and moral strength. Referring to the Mughal era, he spoke of the trials faced by Kashmiri Pandits and their reverence for the Guru’s defense of religious liberty, mentioning Emperor Aurangzeb in that historical context.

Mr. Shah concluded by affirming that the traditions handed down by the ten Sikh Gurus continue to inspire many around the world.

Courtesy: The Hindu