Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Committee Appeals for Steady LPG Supply to Maintain Langar Services
The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has formally addressed Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, urging the government to guarantee an uninterrupted supply of LPG cylinders to gurdwaras across the capital. This proactive measure aims to safeguard the seamless operation of langar, the revered free community kitchens that serve meals to devotees daily.
Committee Leaders Highlight Dependence on LPG for Community Meals
In a letter dispatched on Thursday, DSGMC President Harmeet Singh Kalka and General Secretary Jagdeep Singh Kahlon emphasized the critical role of a consistent LPG supply in sustaining langar services. They pointed out that recent reports of disruptions in cylinder deliveries due to an LPG crunch could potentially hinder the preparation and distribution of these communal meals at the gurdwaras under their management.
The committee's appeal specifically requests that relevant government departments be directed to prioritize the gas supply to Delhi's historical gurdwaras, ensuring that langar distribution continues without interruption, especially with major festivals on the horizon.
Clarification on Current Langar Operations and Past Resilience
Subsequently, the DSGMC clarified that there is currently no disruption in langar services, and the letter was sent as a precautionary step. Kalka and Kahlon issued a statement affirming that these services would not be impacted by any future shortages of gas cylinders. They highlighted the committee's unwavering commitment, noting that even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global activities ground to a halt, langar services in Delhi gurdwaras persisted uninterrupted.
"Not only did we maintain langar, but we also extended humanitarian aid, such as supplying oxygen cylinders to patients, during that crisis," the leaders stated. "If our services remained unaffected during such a grave period, there is no question of them being disrupted now."
Insights from Committee Executive on Gas Supply and Festival Preparations
Bhupinder Singh, an executive member of the DSGMC, provided further context, explaining that most major gurdwaras in Delhi currently operate on piped gas, with no immediate shortage. "There is nothing to worry about. Only some smaller gurdwaras rely on cylinders," Singh told sources.
He elaborated that the committee's primary objective in writing the letter was to request the government to maintain a reserve stock of LPG cylinders. This precaution is particularly crucial with upcoming festivals like Fateh Diwas and Vaisakhi, which attract large numbers of devotees to the gurdwaras.
"We aimed to ensure no disruption in langar services during these peak times," Singh said. "Even if challenges arise, the committee is prepared to manage the situation. Seva (selfless service) will continue under all circumstances."
The DSGMC's appeal underscores its dedication to preserving the sanctity and continuity of langar, a cornerstone of Sikh tradition, while proactively addressing potential logistical hurdles in collaboration with government authorities.
