A social media influencer, Archana Makwana, has appealed to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to drop their police complaint against her for performing yoga at the Golden Temple. Despite initially apologising for her actions, Makwana has now defended herself, stating that no one had objected to her yoga session at the temple. The SGPC has responded by asking for her arrest, claiming that her actions were part of a larger anti-Sikh agenda and that she has continued to spread false propaganda against them.
Archana Makwana's Yoga Controversy at Sri Harmandir Sahib
Background:
Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion. It is a place of deep reverence and respect for Sikhs worldwide.
The Incident:
On December 29, 2022, social media influencer Archana Makwana posted videos of herself performing yoga inside the Golden Temple. The act sparked outrage among Sikhs, who consider it disrespectful to engage in physical exercises within the shrine's premises.
SGPC's Reaction:
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which manages Sikh gurdwaras, filed a police complaint against Makwana for hurting religious sentiments. Makwana initially apologized but later defended her actions, claiming no one had objected to her yoga session at the time.
Escalation and Controversy:
The SGPC demanded Makwana's arrest, accusing her of having an anti-Sikh agenda. They cited her past alleged comments against Sikhism and the Golden Temple. Makwana denied these allegations and claimed to be a practicing Hindu who respected all religions.
Social Media Backlash:
The incident sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Many Sikhs expressed anger and condemnation, while some supported Makwana's right to express herself. The issue also raised questions about the use of religious spaces for non-devotional purposes.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Why is yoga considered disrespectful in the Golden Temple? Yoga is seen as a physical exercise that is not in keeping with the sacred nature of the shrine. Sikhs believe that the Golden Temple is a place for worship and meditation, not for personal exercise sessions.
2. Did Makwana violate any laws? Yes. The SGPC has filed a police complaint against Makwana under Section 295A of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with hurting religious sentiments.
3. Was there any prior consent for the yoga session? No. Makwana has stated that she did not seek permission from the SGPC or any other Sikh authorities before performing yoga.
4. Why is the SGPC demanding Makwana's arrest? The SGPC alleges that Makwana's actions and subsequent statements indicate an anti-Sikh agenda. They believe she is trying to undermine the sanctity of the Golden Temple.
5. What is the current status of the case? The case is currently under investigation. Makwana has been granted bail and is awaiting trial. The outcome of the case could have implications for the use of religious spaces for non-devotional purposes.
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