Chandigarh: A controversy has emerged in Amritsar following Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s visit to flood-affected areas, during which he was honoured with a 'siropa' at gurdwara Baba Budda Sahib.
The gesture has drawn sharp criticism from Sikh organizations, leading to an investigation by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
In a press release issued last night, SGPC president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami announced that a probe is underway to examine the incident. He stated that strict action would be taken against those found violating Sikh traditions.
Dhami reiterated that the SGPC’s interim committee had previously restricted the conferment of 'siropas' in 'gurdwara sahibs' to religious figures, ragi Singhs, and revered Sikh personalities, prohibiting others from receiving this honour.
The SGPC has taken serious note of the incident at Gurdwara Baba Budda Sahib, with a detailed report expected soon. Dhami emphasized that any breach of protocol would result in stringent measures against those responsible.
Sikh groups have strongly objected, arguing that honoring Rahul Gandhi, a leader of the Congress party and member of the Gandhi family, is unacceptable due to the party’s historical link to the 1984 anti-Sikh violence.
Dhami stressed that such an act contravenes Sikh 'maryada' and traditions, deeming it unacceptable.
The investigation is ongoing, with the SGPC expected to release further details soon as it addresses the concerns of the Sikh community.
