The Punjab government has formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the disappearance of 328 holy saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The decision follows growing concern over the sensitive religious issue and demands for accountability.
Senior IPS officer Jagatpreet Singh will lead the SIT. The team includes senior police officers from Amritsar, Patiala, and Ludhiana. Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar will supervise the investigation. Officials said the probe will examine records, responsibilities, and past handling of the sacred saroops.
The government stated that the investigation aims to uncover facts and ensure transparency. Authorities want to identify lapses and fix responsibility without delay. Police officials said more details may emerge as the probe progresses.
The move has triggered a sharp reaction from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami accused the state government of interfering in Sikh religious affairs. He said an Akal Takht-appointed panel had already taken action against the accused.
Dhami claimed the issue involved financial misappropriation by staff members. He alleged that the government was giving the case a political colour. He also said the move challenges the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and could hurt Sikh sentiments.
The issue remains sensitive, with religious bodies and the state now at odds.
