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ISC : THE VOICE OF THE PANTH9to Panthic programmes. It is destined to play a major role in the futurealso. It needs to be not merely preserved, but strengthened. Thesame holds true <strong>of</strong> the SAD, and other parties. The ISC will providethem with intellectual inputs and technical support in formulationand execution <strong>of</strong> their programmes. The ISC will seek to ensurecoordination among the various organizations <strong>of</strong> the Panth, so that all<strong>of</strong> them move towards goals unanimously adopted by the Panth. Withthis sincere approach there should be no room for any suspicions. Itwill be in the interest <strong>of</strong> the SGPC and the SAD and other politicalparties to support this forum with their members joining it asindividuals, avoiding any party politics. The International <strong>Sikh</strong>Confederation should emerge as a powerful global organization <strong>of</strong> the<strong>Sikh</strong>s representing all shades <strong>of</strong> opinion, and not as an extended arm<strong>of</strong> any single political party or individual. It should assumeresponsibility for propagating <strong>Sikh</strong> values, addressing common concerns<strong>of</strong> <strong>Sikh</strong>s and promoting their interests as a part <strong>of</strong> their programme <strong>of</strong>achieving the goal <strong>of</strong> sarbat da bhala.Sri Akal Takht is the highest seat <strong>of</strong> authority among <strong>Sikh</strong>s. TheISC will endeavour to strengthen this great and unique institution andinvoke its authority in the implementation <strong>of</strong> its programmes.Another frequently asked question is: “Earlier two attempts havefailed. Why do you make a third attempt?” Our answer is simple,“Third attempt is necessary, because two attempts have failed.Experience has made us wiser and we are avoiding the mistakes andpitfalls that caused the earlier failures. We shall succeed, since we areseeking the support <strong>of</strong> everybody, and we are not against anyone.”With these few remarks, I extend a hearty welcome to all delegatesassembled here to discuss and adopt the proposed constitution. I hopetheir serious deliberations will lead to the setting up <strong>of</strong> the ISC onstrong foundations. I hope also that an ad hoc committee will emergeout <strong>of</strong> the deliberations <strong>of</strong> this conclave, so that the Confederationcan start functioning without delay. I shall appeal to all <strong>Sikh</strong>organizations and individuals, particularly scholars and opinion leaders,to join the Confederation and strengthen it as the voice <strong>of</strong> the Panth,and to ensure a better future for our present and coming generations.¤