Amritsar, November 8
The installation of mobile phone jammers by the SGPC in the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple has ringed in good news for those seeking solace in the serene environs of Harmandar Sahib.

The move is aimed at preventing cell phone users from disturbing the tranquillity of the Sikh shrine. Besides, it will increase security at the temple, which is frequently visited by VVIPs.

The jammers will block signals of mobile phones inside the sanctum sanctorum, including its first floor.

Sources in the SGPC said two jammers had been installed in the first phase - one each on the ground and first floor - which will block mobile signals in an area of 15 metres.

‘Raagis’ reciting ‘gurbani’ and devotees performing ‘path’ had been complaining of disturbance caused by ringing mobile phones inside the shrine. While the SGPC had put up signboards urging devotees to switch off their mobile phones in and around the sanctum sanctorum, a majority of pilgrims kept their devices on while visiting the shrine.

SGPC secretary Dalmegh Singh said the move would ensure that neither the ‘raagis’ nor the pilgrims were disturbed during their religious activities.

The next phase involves installing jammers along the causeway connecting the Golden Temple Complex with the holy shrine.

Another plan to install jammers up to the Darshani Deodhi was withdrawn as it would have disrupted the live telecast of ‘gurbani’. There is no plan to install jammers in the ‘parikarma’ of the Golden Temple.

The SGPC had earlier installed 130 CCTV cameras at a cost of Rs 2 crore in the complex. The activities of visitors are monitored from a control room set up for the purpose. This has helped curb criminal activities. The SGPC plans to increase the number of CCTV cameras to 200.