AMRITSAR, Punjab—Giani Gurbachan Singh, appointed Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has sought strict action against the Noormehal based Divyajyoti Jagran cult for disturbing peace in Punjab.
The cult, supported by the Punjab Police, fired upon Sikhs yesterday, leaving at least 8 critically injured, including Bhai Amrik Singh, chief of Damdami Taksal (Ajnala).
Giani Gurbachan Singh said, “The Noormehal followers attack the Sikhs, along with saroops of Guru Granth Sahib Ji. They are promoting anti-Gurmat teachings in Punjab.”
Responding to the attack yesterday, Giani Gurbachan Singh said that Sikhs were only peacefully protesting against their programs and all plans were shared with the Deputy Commissioner of police.
He stated that Punjab Government should completely ban the cult in Punjab, so that peace can prevail.
The Noormehal based cult has been in the limelight recently after the demise of their notorious leader, Ashutosh Jha. Despite having passed away, the Punjab Government has allowed the cult management to dramatize his death as a prolonged “deep meditation.” His body is currently kept in a freezer at the dera.
Some critics of the Noormehal Dera and the Punjab Government has told Sikh24 that the entire incident was planned by the Government yesterday as it no longer sought to provide a safe heaven to the Noormehal dera since its president had passed away. “Very soon, we might see the Government withdraw z-security of Ashutosh and perform his final rites to appoint the next chief,” stated a senior ranking Punjab MLA and Akali leader who wished to remain anonymous.
