Sant Singh Tegh

Sant Singh Tegh was an Indian Freedom Fighter of Jammu and Kashmir state.

Sardar Sant Singh Tegh was born on April 13, 1909 at the village Hattian Dupatta (Pakistan-controlled area). He passed Matriculation examination and achieved good command over several languages. He was married twice; to Lakshami Kaur in 1928 and Tirath Kaur in 1945.

At the age of 10 he was an eye-witness to Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. He started his political career at the age of 20. He was elected President of Kisan Sabha in 1933 and President of local gurdwara in 1934, and joined National Conference, becoming member of its General Council from 1938 to 1950. In 1950 he became the first President of the State Akali Dal and continued till 1957. In 1945 he was elected General Secretary of Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi,Kathi Darwaja,Rainwari,Srinagar

Before 1947 he started a crusade against the hereditary mahants (managers) of the gurdwaras. The mahants tried to have him killed but failed. The credit for bringing an end to centuries old hegemony of the mahants goes to Tegh and his associates. Among Sikhs he was known as Sher-i-Kashmir. As a social worker Tegh’s work is no less remarkable. He worked hard for settlement of the refugees after 1947. He was a bold, courageous man of sacrifice. Hindus and Muslims loved him and the Sikhs of the State depended upon him.

He Was repeatedely jailed before and after 1947. Before that he was active in several organisations like Kissan Committee,Motor Union and local Gurdwara Sahib at Muzaffarabad.

He died in Sept 2007 at Jammu.

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Article by :user:sarbjeet_1313me