Controversy Over Missing Guru Granth Sahib 'Saroops' Sparks Political Clash

The Punjab Police have filed an FIR against 16 individuals, including SGPC's former officials, over the 2020 disappearance of 328 'saroops' of Guru Granth Sahib. This has led to a significant political clash between the state government and Sikh leaders, with allegations of interference and misconduct.

In a development stirring political tensions in Punjab, police have registered an FIR against 16 individuals, including former SGPC officials, over the disappearance of 328 'saroops' of Guru Granth Sahib in 2020. The incident has triggered allegations of misconduct and sacrilege, with both the state government and Sikh leaders exchanging strong words.

Filed under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, the FIR accuses former SGPC chief secretary Roop Singh and others of criminal conspiracy and breach of trust. An earlier investigation by the Akal Takht had found certain SGPC officials guilty of misconduct regarding the missing sacred texts.

The case has reignited a political controversy, with SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami criticizing the state government's alleged interference in Sikh religious affairs. He contends the issue is purely administrative and controlled by Sikh authorities, warning against government violations of Sikh traditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)