Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh directs enhanced security for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji after sacrilege incident
Amritsar, April 19 Giani Raghbir Singh, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has directed all gurdwara managers, granthis, and sevadars to ensure proper arrangements for the respect and dignity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in response to the recent incident of sacrilege in Pota Cheema village of Hoshiarpur district.
The Akal Takht Jathedar has instructed that every gurdwara must ensure 24-hour vigilance to protect the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
In a written statement released from Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat on Friday, Giani Raghbir Singh expressed deep resentment over the sacrilege incident that occurred at Pota Cheema village. He said, "Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the eternal guiding light for Sikhs worldwide, and any incident of disrespect deeply hurts the sentiments of Sikhs around the globe."
Giani Raghbir Singh criticised the lax legal and judicial systems for failing to curb the heinous act of sacrilege. He said continuous incidents of sacrilege in gurdwaras indicated that Sikhs could not solely rely on the government for justice and must take responsibility to protect their sacred scriptures.
The Akal Takht Jathedar warned that in future instances of sacrilege, both responsible gurdwara managers and granthis would face religious and legal consequences. He also advised against the use of plastic fans and coolers in gurdwaras, as these increase the risk of fire due to electrical short circuits, particularly in hot weather.
Giani Raghbir Singh called on members of the SGPC and preachers to work with gurdwara committees and granthis in their respective areas to raise awareness about the importance of respecting Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. He instructed them to send reports to Sri Akal Takht Sahib after providing counselling on the matter.
Giani Raghbir Singh also stressed the need for gurdwara committees and granthis to fulfill their responsibilities in ensuring 24-hour vigilance to protect the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. He warned that any future sacrilege incidents would hold both gurdwara managers and granthis accountable, and they would be subject to strict religious punishment according to Sikh traditions.
- PTC NEWS
