Sri Akal Takht Sahib acting Jathedar raises concern over misuse of AI to spread objectionable religious content
Statement follows recent row over an AI-generated distorted image showing turbaned skeleton inside langar hall and parikrama of Golden Temple, wearing shoes
PTC Web Desk: Expressing serious concern over the growing misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) on social media, the acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has cautioned against the circulation of objectionable content targeting Sikh religious institutions and revered Gurus.
In a message addressed to the Sikh community, he urged people not to share such offensive material and instead report it directly on the respective social media platforms. He said forwarding such content only amplifies its reach and inadvertently helps those attempting to hurt religious sentiments.
The statement comes in the wake of a recent controversy where AI technology was allegedly used to create a distorted image depicting a turbaned skeleton inside the langar hall and parikrama area of Sri Harmandir Sahib while wearing shoes. The incident drew strong objections from Sikh devotees as well as the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
Highlighting the seriousness of the issue, the Jathedar pointed out that such incidents are becoming increasingly frequent and people often end up spreading the content further by sharing it across platforms. He stressed that instead of circulating such material, immediate reporting can help curb its spread and reduce its impact.
He also called upon media organisations, digital platforms and web channels to exercise restraint and avoid uploading or distributing such sensitive content, as it can deepen hurt sentiments within the community.
He urged both the Central and state governments to take strict action in such cases and adopt a proactive approach. He emphasised the need for a robust AI policy to prevent the creation and dissemination of content that disrespects religious beliefs. Jathedar Gargaj said early detection and timely intervention could play a crucial role in stopping such material from reaching the public domain.
While acknowledging that AI technology itself is not harmful, he noted that its misuse to distort religious traditions, values and history raises serious concerns. He called for collective responsibility and urged the community, especially the youth, to actively participate in preventing the spread of such content.