SGPC Criticizes Rahul Gandhi Over Abhay Mudra Remarks and Announces Key Decisions

SGPC’s Response to Rahul Gandhi’s Comments

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has strongly condemned Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for his recent remarks linking the Abhay Mudra to various religions, including Sikhism. The SGPC’s president, Harjinder Singh Dhami, held a press conference following a meeting in Amritsar to address this issue and other matters.

Dhami criticized Gandhi’s statement in the Lok Sabha, where he claimed that the Abhay Mudra, traditionally associated with Hinduism and Buddhism, is also present in Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism. The SGPC has taken serious notice of this comment, emphasizing that such claims are inaccurate and disrespectful. The SGPC’s official Twitter handle also highlighted their objection to Gandhi’s statement.

In addition to the remarks about the Abhay Mudra, the SGPC objected to Rahul Gandhi displaying a picture of Guru Nanak during his speech. Dhami stressed that the teachings of the Gurus should not be used in political debates without proper understanding.

Incident Involving Yoga at Golden Temple

The SGPC also addressed the controversy surrounding Archana Makwana, who performed yoga inside the Golden Temple premises on International Yoga Day. Dhami reiterated that the incident has hurt Sikh sentiments, and the SGPC will not forgive deliberate disrespect to religious places. He mentioned that while Makwana has apologized, her actions are seen as intentional, and the SGPC will pursue legal action against her.

To prevent similar incidents, the SGPC announced an immediate ban on all videography within the Golden Temple premises. They are also recruiting 100 additional personnel for deployment at the Parikrama of the Harmandir Sahib and other gurdwaras.

Demand for Action Against Kangana Ranaut

The SGPC demanded an FIR against actor and MP Kangana Ranaut following an incident at Chandigarh airport where she was allegedly slapped by a CISF constable. Dhami criticized the lack of action against Ranaut and called on the Punjab government to register a case against her for spreading hatred against Punjabis.Condolences for Khalistani Terrorist

The press conference began with the SGPC expressing condolences over the death of Khalistani terrorist Gajinder Singh. Singh, a founder of Dal Khalsa, was involved in the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-423 in 1981. The SGPC passed a resolution honoring his “struggling life and sacrifice,” noting his long exile in Pakistan.

Resolution Against Kirpan Restrictions

Lastly, the SGPC adopted a resolution against the prevention of Amritdhari Sikh candidates from carrying kirpans at a judicial exam center in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. This move aims to protect the religious rights of Sikhs and ensure their ability to carry out their traditions without hindrance.