Punjab LoP Pratap Bajwa condemns threats to Golden Temple, slams AAP govt's ‘inaction'
Between July 14 and 16, the SGPC reportedly received five separate threat e-mails.
Calling these threats 'cowardly attempts to destabilise Punjab's hard-won peace,' Bajwa demanded that central and state agencies act swiftly to identify and bring the culprits to justice. 'The Golden Temple is not merely a religious structure. It is the spiritual heartbeat of Sikhism, revered worldwide for its message of equality, service and universal brotherhood. It welcomes devotees of all faiths and stands as a powerful symbol of Punjab's inclusive culture,' the LoP said.
Calling Punjab a land of shared heritage and harmony, Bajwa said, 'From the teachings of the Sikh Gurus to the melodies of Sufi saints, from temples and gurdwaras to mosques and churches, this soil has always breathed unity. Any effort to inject fear and hatred into this spiritual landscape must be confronted with resolve and clarity.'
Bajwa, however, expressed disappointment over the 'inaction' by the Punjab government. 'Despite the seriousness of the threats, neither Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann nor the Director General of Police (DGP) have visited Amritsar to assess the situation and reassure the public. Even four days after the initial threats, the absence of top officials on the ground is alarming,' Bajwa said.
He said, 'In today's age of instant communication and rapid response, such silence and absence of leadership raise serious concerns. The chief minister, the chief secretary and the DGP should have personally visited Amritsar, demonstrated sensitivity and stood by the people during this critical time. This was a moment to show leadership. Unfortunately, the government appears disengaged and indifferent.'
Taking strong exception to the 'double standards' of the AAP, Bajwa noted, 'On the one hand, Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann are pushing a sacrilege prevention Bill in the Assembly to claim religious sensitivity, while on the other, they are completely absent during a moment of actual crisis.'
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