Badal was here to pay homage to Jathedar Daya Singh on his third death anniversary here at a local gurdwara.

The Chief Minister described Jathedar Daya Singh as an epitome of sacrifice and dedication, who spent his entire life for the well-being of the Sikh panth.

Badal said he had a long association with Jathedar Daya Singh, who was committed to the service of humanity. He was an upright, contented and a through humanitarian, who never aspired for any political gain or position, he said.

After partition, he settled here and started farming to earn his livelihood. He remained sarpanch of the village panchayat for 22 years and served as a member of the SGPC for 21 years. He was also an executive member of the SGPC. He also remained the district president of SAD Ludhiana (Rural) for over 27 years, which spoke volumes of his credentials and wider acceptability.

Earlier, Badal visited the ancestral house of Jathedar Daya Singh and met family members, including Harjinder Kaur, his daughter, Navtej Singh, his maternal grandson and Jasbir Singh, his nephew. On the occasion, Badal announced a grant of Rs 5 lakh for the development of Raipur Rajputan village.

Later, Badal presided over a prize distribution function at 25th annual sports tournament organised by Singh Sports’ Association at Ghungrali Rajputan village and announced a grant of Rs 5 lakh for the sports club.

Badal said, “Our government is committed to promote rural sports in a big way.”