CHANDIGARH: A recently surfaced video capturing two individuals adorned in traditional Sikh attire participating in namaz (Islamic prayers) inside a mosque, purportedly during a Vaisakhi pilgrimage in Pakistan, has sparked a contentious debate. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has launched an inquiry to verify the authenticity of the footage, adding another layer to the ongoing controversy.
According to Satbir Singh, personal assistant to SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami, the committee has commenced a departmental investigation to gather facts following the emergence of the video. Singh emphasized the importance of ascertaining the truth behind the incident in question.
Furthermore, Singh noted that the individuals featured in the video, dressed in Sikh attire, have yet to be identified. This revelation has prompted further scrutiny and speculation surrounding the circumstances surrounding their actions.
Sikh intellectual Charanjit Singh weighed in on the matter, expressing concerns over the implications of the incident. While acknowledging the importance of respecting other religions, Singh deemed the adoption of religious practices from other faiths as objectionable. He highlighted the historical stance of Sikh Gurus against conversions and cautioned that such incidents could potentially encourage such actions.
Singh called for appropriate measures to be taken in response to the controversy, stressing the need to uphold the integrity and sanctity of Sikh religious customs and teachings. The sentiments echoed by Singh underscore the significance of safeguarding religious identity and principles amidst a climate of increasing interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.