Neeraj BaliChandigarh, June 24 -- The conferment of the Padma Shri on Sant Niranjan Das, the head of Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar, has triggered discussions not only about his social and spiritual contributions but also about the possible political implications of the recognition in Punjab ahead of the next Assembly elections.
President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Shri to Sant Niranjan Das during the Padma Awards 2026 investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present on the occasion. The award has been widely viewed as recognition of the services rendered by the Dera Sachkhand Ballan chief and the institution's influence among the Ravidassia community in Punjab and abroad.
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