Face2News/Chandigarh/Amritsar
Punjab’s Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, on Monday appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib to submit a clarification on behalf of his department, in compliance with the directions issued by the Jathedar Sahib of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. As a mark of humility and reverence, the minister walked barefoot to Sri Darbar Sahib, offered deg, and thereafter paid obeisance at Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
Sond submitted his clarification before the Singh Sahiban at the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. Speaking to the media after the proceedings, he stated that Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme institution of the Sikhs, and every direction issued by the Singh Sahiban is akin to a divine command and is binding on all.
He explained that on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the Punjab Government had constructed the Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial at Sri Anandpur Sahib. An objection had been raised by the Jathedar Sahib regarding a picture displayed at the memorial, following which he was summoned. Sond clarified that the concerned picture was corrected on the same day in accordance with the objection raised. However, as the head of the department, he personally appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib to submit a formal clarification.
The minister informed that after hearing his explanation, the Singh Sahiban directed that strict adherence to Sikh religious code of conduct (Maryada) must be ensured in all works undertaken by the department, and that the dignity and respect of the Gurus and martyrs should never be compromised. The Singh Sahiban also advised that a scholar well-versed in Gurmat ideology should be appointed in the department.
Sond said that the matter would be brought to the notice of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, and it would be ensured that no such lapse occurs in future, whether knowingly or unknowingly. He added that strict instructions have already been issued to the department that for any programme or work related to religion, proper guidance must be obtained in advance from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Sri Akal Takht Sahib, so that Sikh traditions and sentiments are fully respected.