Chandigarh, March 19: Two Sikh groups, the Dal Khalsa and Shiromani Khalsa Dal, have resolved to unite to achieve sovereign self-rule for Sikhs, reports our correspondent.

The decision, arrived at Holla Mohalla in Anandpur Sahib last week, has led to anxiety in the Punjab police headquarters. The annual festival reaffirms fraternity and brotherhood among nihangs, the Sikh warriors.

The Amarinder Singh-led Congress government in Punjab has directed police to put leaders of both the groups under watch.

The Dal Khalsa and the Shiromani Khalsa Dal are headed by individuals whose aim is to establish the independent Sikh state of Khalistan.

The two groups have vowed to “provide a fresh political platform for the Sikhs who were depressed with the incompetent and incapable leadership of various factions of the Akali Dal”, said Shiromani Khalsa Dal president Daljit Singh Bittu. There was a need to instil pride in Sikh youths about their tradition, principles and ethos, he added.

Bittu said Sikhs had struggled for their rights in the past and would carry on with their democratic struggle till their aspirations were fulfilled. He said both the groups had decided to unite in the interest of the “Sikh nation”.

Dal Khalsa president Satnam Singh said they would reach out to people to involve them in “the struggle to uphold Sikh honour and dignity”.