M A I N   N E W S

golden temple clash
Akal Takht asks SGPC to form inquiry committee
Makkar to submit report
21 accused remanded in judicial custody
Perneet Singh
Tribune News Service

Sikhs have tarnished their image by resorting to bloodshed at Akal Takht. The incident has sent a wrong message across the globe. The Akal Takht Jathedar should punish those involved in the clash. Tarlochan Singh, former chairman of national commission for minorities Sikh diaspora flays clash The Sikh diaspora has flayed the clash between rival Sikh groups at the Golden Temple. "Such clashes are embarrassing for the Sikh community. How can we now tell the world that we are a peace-loving community," said Satnam Singh Chahal, executive director, North American Punjabi Association.

Amritsar, June 7
A day after the violent clash, Jathedar of Akal Takht Giani Gurbachan Singh today directed the SGPC to constitute a sub-committee to probe the incident. He has asked SGPC president Avtar Singh Makkar to submit a report.

Talking to mediapersons, the Jathedar said none of those involved in the conspiracy would be spared. He said no act in which the ‘maryada’ was breached can be tolerated. He rejected reports about Darbar Sahib manager Partap Singh brandishing a sword in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib. “Partap Singh had snatched weapons from the rival group to ensure peace. It is expected that Akal Takht will initiate the process for awarding religious punishment to those involved in the clash after receiving the report,” he said. SGPC president Avtar Singh Makkar said strict action would be taken against persons involved in the clash. “We will ensure that such an incident does not recur,” added Makkar. Meanwhile, the police remained cautious a day after the clash.

Policemen were deployed around the Golden Temple and other parts of the city.

However, Police Commissioner Jatinder Singh Aulakh said it had nothing to do with yesterday’s clash. The rush of devotees at the Golden Temple also remained normal. Long queues were witnessed at the shrine despite soaring mercury in the city.

The police produced the 21 accused arrested in the case in a local court which remanded them to a 14-day judicial custody. The remaining seven accused are still at large.