Devotees entering the Golden Temple in Amritsar were instructed to remove identification cards that featured Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's photograph. The directive was issued by officials of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the body that manages the shrine.
SGPC Enforces No-Publicity Rule
An SGPC official stated that wearing such ID cards within the gurdwara premises holds no meaning, as no form of publicity is permitted inside the holy site. The move underscores the SGPC's strict adherence to its policy of keeping the Golden Temple free from political or promotional displays.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "Wearing such ID cards in the gurdwara has no meaning, since no publicity is allowed there." The statement reaffirms the SGPC's long-standing stance that the sanctity of the shrine must not be compromised by any political messaging.
Context and Reactions
The incident occurred on a regular day at the Golden Temple, one of Sikhism's holiest sites. Devotees were seen complying with the instruction, removing the cards before proceeding with their prayers. The SGPC's action is consistent with its previous efforts to prevent any political campaigning or branding within the temple complex.
Political observers noted that Bhagwant Mann, who leads the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, has a significant following, but the SGPC's decision reflects its institutional independence from political affiliations. No official reaction from the Chief Minister's office or the AAP has been reported so far.
Broader Implications
This development highlights the ongoing vigilance by religious authorities to maintain the non-political character of sacred spaces. The Golden Temple, which attracts millions of pilgrims annually, has historically been a site where political activities are strictly regulated. The SGPC's directive serves as a reminder that personal or political endorsements are unwelcome within its precincts.
The incident also raises questions about the intersection of religious institutions and political figures in Punjab. While the SGPC has its own political leanings, its actions at the Golden Temple are intended to preserve the shrine's spiritual atmosphere. The removal of the IDs was carried out without any confrontation, and devotees reportedly cooperated with the officials.
