Haroli/Una, March 16 (Rajveer Chopra):- Following the formation of new panchayats, the Sikh *Sangat* (congregation) has expressed its gratitude to Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri for accepting the demand to name the newly formed Gurpalah Panchayat—located in the Bathu region—as "Gurpalah Sahib."
In a statement issued on behalf of the Sikh *Sangat* of Santokhgarh, Haroli, and District Una, it was noted that the Gurpalah area is home to a historic Gurdwara Sahib associated with the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji; this shrine serves as a center of immense sanctity and faith for the Sikh community. Recognizing this religious and historical significance, the Sikh *Sangat* had requested that the Gurpalah Gram Sabha (Village Assembly) be officially recognized as "Gurpalah Sahib."
It was further stated that the Deputy Chief Minister, respecting the sentiments of the Sikh community, took positive and prompt action regarding this demand—a move that has sparked a wave of joy throughout the entire region and within the Sikh community.
Representatives of the Sikh *Sangat* remarked that the Gurpalah Sahib area holds immense significance from both religious and historical perspectives. Its recognition as "Sahib" is a matter of great pride for the entire region and the Sikh community.
They added that this decision not only honors the sentiments of the Sikh *Sangat* but will also bestow a renewed identity upon the region's rich religious heritage.
On this occasion, Dr. Daljit Singh Bhinder (Special Committee Member, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee), Bhai Gurdeep Singh (In-charge, Sikh Mission Himachal Pradesh), Bhai Kulwinder Singh (Granthi, Gurdwara Gurpalah Sahib), and Bhai Varinder Singh (President, Hiran Panchayat)—along with other representatives of the Sikh Mission Himachal Pradesh and the local Sikh *Sangat* of Gurpalah Sahib—extended their heartfelt gratitude to the Deputy Chief Minister.