NAPA seeks probe into ‘police action’ on Sikh devotees at Bangla Sahib

Chandigarh: The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) on Sunday expressed concern over reports of police action on Sikh devotees at the historic Gurdwara Bangla Sahib in New Delhi during Saturday’s protest and demanded an independent, time-bound inquiry into the incident.

It also sought clarification regarding a video purportedly showing Delhi Police personnel entering the Bangla Sahib wearing shoes while going to detain protesters who had taken shelter there.

NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal said allegations of disrespect towards Sikh religious traditions, forcible removal of turbans and rough handling of women protesters had caused concern among Sikhs in India and abroad.

He said the turban was an important symbol of Sikh identity, dignity and faith, and any allegation of its forcible removal during police action should be investigated seriously.

Chahal also called for an inquiry into allegations that police mishandled women protesters and ignored their requests for help.

Acknowledging the police’s responsibility to maintain law and order, NAPA said the incident should be examined through a fair and impartial investigation.

The association also referred to the Delhi Police’s clarification that footage showing personnel wearing shoes was recorded in a common passage leading to the designated shoe-removal area.