Shiv Sena burned effigy of Jathedar of Akal Takhat; Sikhs outraged; Case registered – 1 arrested so far

Batala, Punjab (July 01, 2013): It is learnt that Shiv Sena (Samajwadi) burned an effigy of Jathedar of Akal Takhat Sahib at Batala on 28 June, 2013. This activity outraged the local Sikh sangat, who lodged strong protest against Shiv Seniks and warned police and civil administration to curb their activities and arrest the culprits.

It is notable that Giani Gurbachan Singh, Jathedar of Akal Takhat Shahib had endowed Siropas (religious rob of honor) upon three Sikhs, including Bhai Baljeet Singh Bhau – an associate of Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara; who had come to pay homage at Sri Darbar Sahib and Akal Takhat Sahib. Objecting on this the Shiv Sena (Samajwadi) had burned the effigy of Giani Gurbachan Singh.

Local sources told Sikh Siyasat News (SSN) that Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) held an all party meeting of local organizations on this matter at the directions of Deputy Commissioner (DC). The Sikhs pressed the administration to lodge a criminal case against the culprits and arrest them.

Sources told Sikh Siyasat News that on 29th June, 2013 an FIR was registered against about 15 activists of Shiv Sena (Samajwadi) under section 295-A of Indian Penal Code.

It is learnt that one Rachhpal Bittu has already been arrested by the police in this case, while others were still out of reach of the police.

A delegation of local Sikhs reportedly met Batala SSP Talsi Ram who assured them that the remaining persons shall soon be arrested.