Former Punjab CM Channi Requests Feb 1 as National Holiday for Guru Ravidas Jayanti Amid Budget Session

January 29, 2026

Chandigarh: Former Punjab Chief Minister and MP Charanjit Singh Channi has written to the Lok Sabha Speaker requesting that February 1, 2026 be declared a national holiday on the occasion of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Maharaj Jayanti.

In his letter dated 28 January 2026, Channi stated that Guru Ravidas Jayanti holds deep religious and social significance across India, especially in states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and Varanasi. He highlighted that millions of devotees observe the day with devotion and participate in religious and cultural events.

Reason for Holiday Request

Channi pointed out that while Guru Ravidas Jayanti is normally observed as a restricted holiday, this year it coincides with a Sunday. He added that the Union Budget 2026-27 is scheduled to be presented on February 1, which would require the presence of MPs in Parliament.

“This would prevent MPs from participating in the Jayanti observance, which is a nationally significant event,” Channi wrote.

Appeal for Parliamentary Adjustment

The MP urged the government to declare February 1 as a national holiday and make necessary adjustments to parliamentary business to allow participation in the celebrations.

He emphasized that Guru Ravidas Ji’s teachings of equality, social justice, and human dignity are integral to India’s constitutional values and deserve nationwide recognition.