Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticised the Delhi Police over an alleged entry into Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib, accusing the force of disregarding the sanctity of one of Sikhism’s prominent religious sites.
In a social media post, Mann condemned what he described as the forcible entry of police personnel into the gurdwara during the protest-related developments in Delhi on Saturday. He also targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the incident reflected a lack of respect for Sikh religious traditions.
The controversy comes amid heightened tensions in the national capital following demonstrations over alleged electoral irregularities and demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
What Did Bhagwant Mann Say About The Bangla Sahib Incident?
Mann argued that gurdwaras have traditionally provided shelter to people in distress, regardless of their circumstances. Referring to this tradition, he said young people involved in the protests should have been offered protection if they had sought refuge inside the religious premises.
He also highlighted the role of sevadars, the volunteers who serve at gurdwaras, saying their responsibilities are rooted in welcoming and assisting those who approach the shrine for help.
The Punjab chief minister framed the alleged police entry as a matter of religious respect and the treatment of people seeking sanctuary.
Why Has Mann Raised Questions About Police Conduct At Bangla Sahib?
In his post, Mann alleged that police personnel entered the shrine without covering their heads and while wearing shoes. He described the alleged conduct as a violation of the religious decorum expected at the gurdwara.
Mann also used strong language against the BJP, comparing its approach to that of the Taliban. He said the Sikh community would not forget the incident.
These remarks reflect Mann’s criticism of the alleged police action. The circumstances of the entry, including the sequence of events inside the complex, require further confirmation.
What Is The Connection Between The Protest And Gurdwara Bangla Sahib?
The controversy has emerged against the backdrop of protests in Delhi over alleged electoral roll irregularities and demands for action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The demonstrations led to a heavy police deployment and the detention of several protesters and political figures. The alleged entry into Bangla Sahib has since become a separate point of political and religious contention.
Mann’s criticism centres on whether the religious premises and Sikh traditions of offering refuge were respected during the police operation.
Has Delhi Police Responded To The Allegations?
The statement provided by Mann did not include a response from Delhi Police or the BJP to the allegations concerning the gurdwara.
The police account of the incident, including the reason for entering the complex and the circumstances in which personnel allegedly entered, remains important to establishing a complete picture of what happened.
Until those details are independently confirmed, the claims about police conduct should be treated as allegations made by the Punjab chief minister.
