AI Generated Summary
- If accepted, the initiative would mark the first time an Indian university has successfully advocated for the global observance of a day dedicated to moral consciousness, rooted in the teachings of a historical spiritual figure whose sacrifice continues to resonate across religions and borders.
- In a significant move linking global human rights discourse with India’s spiritual heritage, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has formally approached the United Nations with a proposal to dedicate United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24, to the moral legacy of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
- In his communication to the UN, Prof Singh described Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy as a timeless message for humanity, rooted in the principle of “the good of all.
In a significant move linking global human rights discourse with India’s spiritual heritage, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has formally approached the United Nations with a proposal to dedicate United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24, to the moral legacy of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. The university has suggested renaming the occasion as “Moral Awareness Day” to highlight universal values of freedom of belief, ethical courage and human dignity.
The proposal, sent by Vice-Chancellor Prof Karamjit Singh to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, underscores Guru Tegh Bahadur’s historic sacrifice as a defining moment in the defence of religious liberty. According to the university, his martyrdom was not confined to safeguarding a single faith but represented a broader stand for the right of all individuals to practise and uphold their beliefs without fear or coercion.
In his communication to the UN, Prof Singh described Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy as a timeless message for humanity, rooted in the principle of “the good of all.” The university has argued that formally recognising this philosophy through a global observance would inspire nations to reaffirm commitments to justice, equality and peaceful coexistence.
To ensure the proposal reaches the highest level of international consideration, GNDU has designated Jaspreet Singh, Attorney-at-Law (New York) and Professor of Eminence at the university, as its authorised representative. He has been tasked with personally submitting the proposal and supporting documents at the UN Headquarters and coordinating with relevant officials to advance the initiative.
The foundation of this proposal lies in the “Amritsar Declaration,” adopted during a national seminar held on November 11 and 12 to mark the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. More than 70 scholars participated in the deliberations, which culminated in a unanimous resolution embracing the Guru’s universal message: “Do not frighten anyone and do not live in fear of anyone.” This guiding principle, the university stated, encapsulates the essence of moral strength and ethical conviction.
Explaining the vision behind the initiative, Prof Karamjit Singh said that the proposed Moral Awareness Day would aim to promote global reflection on compassion, peace and moral responsibility. He added that it would encourage nations to take principled decisions while reinforcing the core ideals embedded in the UN Charter.
In recognition of its national and cultural significance, the university has also forwarded copies of the resolution to India’s top constitutional authorities, seeking broader awareness and support for the proposal.
If accepted, the initiative would mark the first time an Indian university has successfully advocated for the global observance of a day dedicated to moral consciousness, rooted in the teachings of a historical spiritual figure whose sacrifice continues to resonate across religions and borders.
