Minority Panel condemns Dera Chief for imitating Sikh Guru

New Delhi, May 18 (UNI) The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) today condemned the Dera Sacha Sauda Chief for emulating the practice of baptism taken up by, tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh while creating the Khalsa towards the end of 17th century, saying that the former's act had hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community and faithfuls.

NMC member Harcharan Singh Josh said the Sikh Guru had sacrificed his life for the humanity alongwith his father and sons and the Khalsa created by him brought about far-reaching changes on political, social and religious life in the Indian subcontinent. Projecting oneself at the level of the Guru would mean injuring the religious susceptibilties of the Sikhs, which should not be done,'' he said.

He, however, appealed to the Sikh Community not to be swayed by anger and should keep its cool and help in restoring peace, harmony and brotherhood on the path shown by the Sikh gurus.

UNI