Amritsar: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday said religious institutions should be managed by religious and learned personalities rather than politicians. He was addressing a state-level function to mark the Parkash Purab of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki here.“Religious institutions should be managed by people associated with the respective faiths, without unnecessary political interference,” Mann said, adding that Punjab’s soil could nurture every seed, but hatred could never flourish here.The chief minister paid obeisance at the shrine and greeted devotees on the occasion.He said the teachings of Maharishi Valmiki, traditionally regarded as the author of the Ramayana, remained relevant for building a society based on equality, justice and brotherhood. He urged people to rise above divisions and ensure dignity and equal opportunities for all.Referring to the spiritual and historical significance of Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal, Ram Tirath, Mann said Rs 17.5 crore had been released for its development. Ongoing works include renovation of the main temple, cleaning of the sacred sarovar and improvement of facilities for devotees. A panorama depicting Valmiki’s life and teachings was dedicated in 2024 at a cost of Rs 25 crore.Mann said the government was facilitating devotees through the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojana, enabling them to visit Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal and other prominent religious sites in Amritsar.Describing the Ramayana as a source of guidance on truth, morality and compassion, he said Valmiki’s teachings belonged to all humanity and should inspire people to reject discrimination and strengthen social harmony.BoxPilgrims allege poor facilities under Tirath Yatra SchemeEight elderly pilgrims from Doodhewala village in Fazilka district allegedly faced harassment and poor facilities during a visit to Amritsar under the Punjab government’s Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Scheme. Several of them reportedly fell ill after consuming allegedly stale food and contaminated water.Speaking to mediapersons, the pilgrims complained of vomiting and diarrhoea. They also alleged poor accommodation, non-functional geysers, and misbehaviour by security guards and bus staff.A panchayat member alleged that a security guard behaved rudely with him.The pilgrims demanded an impartial inquiry and strict action against the contractors and employees found responsible.
