Image Source: ptcnews.tv
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) recently filed a police complaint against Instagram influencer Archana Makwana for performing yoga at Amritsar’s Golden Temple during the International Day of Yoga. This act, deemed disrespectful to the sacred site of Sri Darbar Sahib, sparked significant distress within the Sikh community.
In response, SGPC took disciplinary action against three employees who failed to prevent the incident in the Parikrama, a key prayer area within the temple premises, imposing fines of Rs 5,000 each. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami expressed deep disappointment over the breach of the temple’s sanctity, urging the community to uphold reverence for the site.
Recognizing the backlash, Archana Makwana issued a public apology and promptly removed the contentious images from her social media accounts. She acknowledged the insensitivity of her actions, explaining that her intent was to promote unity and health through yoga.
Consequently, Punjab police have initiated legal proceedings against Makwana under Section 295-A of the Indian Penal Code, which safeguards religious sentiments. Amid concerns for her safety following public outcry, Vadodara police have provided Makwana with temporary police protection.
In an Instagram post, Makwana expressed remorse, stating, “Please accept sincere apologies from me. I never intended to hurt religious sentiments of anyone… all religion teaches us to forgive everyone not to abuse them.. getting death threats & ultra abusive messages & phone calls since morning.”
She clarified that her visit to the Gurudwara on International Yoga Day 2024, observed worldwide on June 21, was to express gratitude, emphasizing her respect for religious sentiments despite the unintended controversy.
