The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has filed a police complaint against fashion designer and lifestyle influencer Archana Makwana for "hurting religious sentiments" by performing yoga at the Golden Temple and sharing photographs on social media. Makwana has since apologized for her actions and the SGPC has also suspended three employees for not performing their duties diligently. The incident occurred on the International Day of Yoga on June 21 at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, sparking backlash and prompting the SGPC to take action.
Golden Temple Yoga Controversy: SGPC Files Complaint, Suspends Employees
Background
The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine of the Sikh faith. Situated in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of peace, harmony, and devotion.
The Incident
On June 21, 2023, International Day of Yoga, fashion designer and lifestyle influencer Archana Makwana visited the Golden Temple and performed yoga postures within the premises. She subsequently posted photographs of herself practicing yoga at the sacred site on social media.
SGPC's Response
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the governing body of Sikh gurdwaras, condemned Makwana's actions as "sacrilegious" and "hurtful to religious sentiments." The SGPC filed a police complaint against Makwana under Section 295A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which prohibits deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
The SGPC also suspended three temple employees for negligence in preventing Makwana from performing yoga.
Makwana's Apology
Following the backlash, Makwana issued an apology on social media, expressing regret for her actions and acknowledging that she had not intended to cause offense. She stated that she had not realized that yoga was prohibited inside the Golden Temple.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why was yoga prohibited at the Golden Temple?
Yoga is not an integral part of Sikh religious practices and is not considered appropriate to be performed within the sacred precincts of the Golden Temple.
2. What are the consequences of Makwana's actions?
Makwana could face criminal charges under Section 295A of the IPC, which carries a maximum punishment of three years in prison or a fine, or both.
3. Who is the SGPC, and what is its role?
The SGPC is a statutory body established by the Indian government to manage and administer Sikh gurdwaras in India. It is responsible for ensuring the sanctity and preservation of these holy places.
4. What actions has the SGPC taken in response to this incident?
The SGPC has filed a police complaint against Makwana, suspended three temple employees, and reiterated its policy prohibiting non-Sikh religious activities within the Golden Temple.
5. What should visitors to the Golden Temple be aware of?
Visitors to the Golden Temple are expected to respect the sanctity of the site. This includes refraining from engaging in activities that are not part of Sikh religious practices, such as yoga.
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