Devotees Asked to Remove IDs With Bhagwant Mann's Photo At Golden Temple Amid Row

A controversy has erupted at the Golden Temple in Amritsar after devotees were reportedly asked to remove identification cards that featured the photograph of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The incident, captured in a viral video, has led to a significant backlash and prompted action from the religious authorities.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the governing body responsible for managing Sikh shrines, has convened a special Panthic (Sikh community) congregation. This meeting is scheduled for Sunday and aims to address the sensitive issue surrounding the chief minister's image on devotee IDs and the subsequent controversy.

While the exact circumstances leading to the request for card removal remain under discussion, the viral nature of the video has amplified the situation. The SGPC's decision to hold a congregation signifies the seriousness with which the committee views the matter, seeking to deliberate on the implications and potentially formulate a response or policy regarding the display of political figures' images at the holy site.

The row underscores the delicate balance between religious sanctity and political presence within prominent spiritual centers. The SGPC's intervention is expected to provide clarity and guidance on the matter, addressing the concerns raised by the incident.