HM Amit Shah to offer prayers at Buddha relics in Leh on Buddha Purnima
New Delhi, May 1
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will join devotees on Friday to pay respects to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima.
He arrived in the Union Territory of Ladakh on Thursday on a two-day visit.
Union Minister Shah earlier said in a post on X: "Tomorrow will be a historic day for Ladakh, when, on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha will be available for the people of Ladakh to pay their respects."
"I consider myself fortunate that I, too, will have the rare opportunity tomorrow to have darshan of these holy relics."
"In order that these sacred relics may be easily accessible for darshan by the people of Ladakh over the next two weeks, I held a meeting today with the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh and the concerned officials in this regard."
He was welcomed on arrival by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, senior government officials, elected representatives, and local residents, many of whom were dressed in traditional attire.
"He (Union Home Minister Amit Shah) will be paying respects to the holy relics of Lord Buddha on Friday (May 1) on the occasion of the 2569th Buddha Purnima. The Home Minister's visit and his vision for the development of Ladakh shall motivate us to work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Ladakh," Lieutenant Governor Saxena said.
After the arrival of the Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha in Leh, people have been gathering in large numbers to pay their respects.
This is Union Home Minister Amit Shah's first visit to Ladakh since protests over demands for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule in September last year, during which four protesters were killed and more than 80 others injured.
The Centre has decided to engage in dialogue with representatives from Ladakh to address their concerns and explore measures to preserve the region's unique environment and cultural heritage.
Union Minister Amit Shah is also scheduled to launch major dairy and cooperative sector projects during his visit to Ladakh.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Beautiful gesture on Buddha Purnima. But I hope this isn't just a photo opportunity. The people of Ladakh have been demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule protection for so long. Four people lost their lives in protests last year! We need concrete action, not just darshan and dairy projects. The Centre should listen to their voices.
As a Buddhist from Maharashtra, I'm thrilled that the Piprahwa relics are in Ladakh! These sacred remains connect us to our ancient past. Amit Shah ji paying respects shows unity in diversity. Ladakh's unique culture deserves protection, and dialogue is the way forward. Hope the dairy projects also help local farmers. Jai Bhim! 🕉️
What a wonderful initiative! Ladakh is a jewel of India and Buddha Purnima is the perfect occasion for spiritual reflection. The Home Minister's vision for development is commendable. But I hope the government also remembers the sacrifices of those who protested last year. True development includes justice and reconciliation. 🙏
Loving the traditional attire and the warmth of Ladakhi people! Our Buddhist brothers and sisters deserve respect and rights. But I'm a bit skeptical - first visit since the protests and statehood demands? Hopefully this isn't just damage control. Actions speak louder than prayers sometimes. Time will tell if dialogues lead to real change.
This is a significant moment - the Piprahwa relics are a part of our shared heritage. Amit Shah ji's focus on including Ladakh's unique culture in development plans is promising. The dairy and cooperative projects could really boost the local economy. Hope the dialogue leads to a solution that balances aspirations with
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