Chandigarh, Jan 24: Amritsar authorities are preparing to register an FIR after a Muslim youth was seen performing ablutions in the sacred sarovar of the Golden Temple. This act has sparked widespread concern among the Sikh community. The youth, identified as Subhan Rangrez from Delhi, had previously apologized twice, but the manner of his actions has left many dissatisfied.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) confirmed that a formal complaint will soon be submitted to the police. SGPC legal advisor Amanbir Singh Siyali stated that investigations revealed the youth entered the temple with the intention of committing an act considered disrespectful. He remained in the Golden Temple premises for approximately 20 minutes but did not perform the customary bowing at the sanctum, a key element of reverence in Sikh practice.
The incident drew criticism from parts of the community for delayed action. Nihangs from Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, had already complained, citing that the youth’s behavior hurt religious sentiments, emphasizing that the matter was being referred to authorities rather than taking the law into their own hands. They demanded that Rangrez issue a public apology in accordance with Sikh customs, warning that detailed information about the individual had been collected.
Video footage of the youth performing ablutions, which was later circulated on social media under the label “Muslim Sher,” showed him washing his mouth with water from the sarovar, then spitting it back, and gesturing toward the temple. In a subsequent video apology, Rangrez stated that the act was unintentional and that he respected all religions. He expressed regret, acknowledged his lack of understanding of temple customs, and offered to apologize in person.
The SGPC, which had previously prohibited filming within the Golden Temple complex to prevent the dissemination of disrespectful content, has promised a thorough review of the incident, including whether temple staff were present to oversee the sanctity of the premises at the time. The police have begun inquiries and summoned Rangrez for questioning.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about maintaining religious protocols and sensitivity at one of Sikhism’s most sacred sites, with authorities emphasizing accountability and respectful conduct.
