Minorities panel to seek ban on Guru Nanak idols

New Delhi, Nov 24 (UNI) The National Commission for Minorities(NCM) has taken serious note of Sikh complaints over sale of Guru Nanak idols in India and is considering recommending ban on their import, mostly from China.

''There is a representation from Delhi's senior Akali leader Manjit Singh. We understand that the issue is of grave concern for the entire Sikh community as idol worship is prohibited in the faith. The commission will urgently discuss this issue and take appropriate action,'' NCM member Harcharan Singh Josh said.

In his complaint, Manjit Singh, a senior member of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) and head of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Panthak), had alleged that Guru Nanak idols were being imported from China and put on sale mostly in metro cities.

''We will take up this complaint with appropriate authorities and certainly will recommend ban on the import of such idols to India,'' Mr Josh said.

On his part, the DSGMC leader added that he would approach the Chinese government through its embassy in New Delhi to seek a ban on the making of the idols of the Sikh Guru.

''It's not just import but the making of the idols of Sikh Gurus, who prohibited idol worship, is in itself blasphemous.

We will approach the Chinese government to seek a ban on their making,'' Mr Singh said.

UNI