Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly criticised the Delhi Police over an alleged entry into Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib in the national capital, accusing the force of disregarding the religious sanctity of the Sikh shrine.
In a post on social media, Mann condemned what he described as the forcible entry of police personnel into the gurdwara, which he said took place on the previous day. He also targeted the BJP, alleging that the police action reflected disrespect towards Sikh religious traditions.
Mann said gurdwaras have historically served as places of refuge for people in need, regardless of their circumstances. Referring to the Sikh tradition of providing shelter to those seeking help, he argued that young people participating in protests should have been offered protection if they had entered the premises.
According to the chief minister, the responsibility of the sevadars, or volunteers serving at the shrine, is guided by the principle of welcoming and assisting those who seek sanctuary.
The Punjab CM also raised concerns about the conduct of the police personnel, alleging that they entered the religious premises without covering their heads and while wearing shoes. He described the alleged actions as a violation of the dignity and established decorum of the holy site.
Using strong language in his criticism, Mann accused the BJP of adopting an approach he likened to that of the Taliban and said the Sikh community would not forget the incident.
His remarks have brought the alleged police action at Bangla Sahib into the political spotlight, with the chief minister framing the issue around the sanctity of Sikh religious institutions and their traditional role as places of refuge.
The allegations and criticism were made by Mann in his social media post. Further details about the circumstances surrounding the police entry and any response from the Delhi Police or BJP were not included in the statement provided.
