Akali Dal Expresses Grave Concern Over Auction of Gifted Golden Temple Model to PM Modi; Calls It ‘Disrespectful’De

Delhi: Akali Dal President, Sukhbir Singh Badal, expressed his dismay over the government’s decision to put Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Golden Temple model up for auction. Badal regarded the action as gravely insulting and emphasised that it would gravely hurt the Sikh community’s religious sentiment.
The replica of the Golden Temple was a gift from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. The e-auction of gifts received by PM Modi began this month on October 2 and will run until October 31, with the proceeds directed towards the government’s ‘Namami Gange’ initiative, aimed at revitalizing the Ganga River.

Among the numerous gifts listed, the model of the Golden Temple stands out, alongside a statue of Lord Laxmi Narayan Vitthal and goddess Rukmini, replicas of Gujarat’s Sun Temple, Chittorgarh’s Vijay Stambh, and a painting of Banaras Ghat by renowned artist Paresh Maity. PM Modi previously showcased these items on X, highlighting their significance in representing India’s rich culture and artistic heritage.

Sukhbir Singh Badal stressed that the model represents a sacred symbol of blessings from the Akal Purakh and the Guru Sahibs. He urged Prime Minister Modi to halt the auction and return the model to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.