PHAGWARA: In a solemn remembrance ceremony held at the ancient Shri Hanumangarhi Garrhi Phagwara, Shiv Sena (Ubatha) members paid heartfelt tribute to innocent civilians and security personnel who lost their lives during Punjab’s dark era of terrorism in the 1980s and 1990s. The annual event was organized under the leadership of City President Raman Sharma.
Senior state vice president Rajinder Billa and Punjab general secretary Gurdeep Saini addressed the gathering, recalling the pain and sacrifices borne by thousands of families during that turbulent time. “Punjab witnessed an extremely tragic phase in which many people laid down their lives to safeguard the unity and integrity of India, ” said Billa. “The bravery and sacrifice of police and army personnel must always be remembered with respect.”
Calling upon the youth to learn from the past, Saini appealed to them to channel their energy toward national service rather than falling prey to drugs or divisive ideologies. He emphasized the need to instill a sense of patriotism and social responsibility among the younger generation.
Saini also expressed concern over the long-standing neglect of families who lost loved ones to terrorism. “It is unfortunate that many families who lost their only breadwinner have not received any form of compensation or rehabilitation from the government, even decades later, ” he said. “Widows and elderly parents of victims have endured severe hardships, raising children and managing households in the face of financial and emotional struggles.”
Reiterating the party’s long-standing stance, Shiv Sena (Ubatha) leaders urged both the state and central governments to implement structured rehabilitation plans, including financial support and employment opportunities for the affected families.
Several local Shiv Sena members were present at the event, including Rupesh Dhir, Danny Dhir, Puneet, Harry, Dharmendra, Kamal Gangad, Govinda Halwai, Bittu Bhamra, Shamsher Bharti, Shalu Hadiyabad, and Boota, among others. The gathering concluded with a collective pledge to continue supporting the families of the victims and promoting peace and unity in Punjab.