Should SGPC offer free WiFi access around Sri Darbar Sahib complex in Amritsar?
— Sikh24 News (@Sikh24) May 3, 2016
AMRITSAR SAHIB, Punjab—Traditionally, while the usage of electronic devices and gadgets at Sri Darbar Sahib has been barred, the SGPC is planning to offer free WiFi access around the complex in Sri Amritsar. The SGPC currently has mobile jammers within Sri Harmandir Sahib and pilgrims are encouraged to put their cameras and cell phones away as excessive use of electronic devices can lead to disturbance for others.
SGPC Spokesperson and Additional Secretary, Diljeet Singh Bedi told Sikh24 that free WiFi service will benefit the pilgrims in many ways. He confirmed that the service will generally only be provided at guest houses and information offices, however, some parts of the parkarma will also get light coverage.
“The WiFi equipment has already been setup and coverage will be provided shortly. With the help of Internet and Electricity department of the SGPC, the project is underway and very soon, free WiFi service will be provided around Sri Darbar Sahib complex. The infrastructure cost has been covered by the Videocon Connect Company, which will bear all expenses for the equipment and bandwidth,” he told Sikh24.
“WiFi access will be facilitated at Sri Manji Sahib Diwan Hall, Guru Arjan Dev Niwas in Sri Harmandir Sahib Complex, Mata Ganga Ji Niwas, Guru Hargobind Niwas and Sri Guru Ram Dass Rest House,” he added.
“We plan to add more hubs in near future. WiFi access will also be provided at the Information Office. Similarly, facilitation of WiFi access at Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat and the Sikh Reference Library would be made as well,” he said.
While SGPC is working on this project with enthusiasm, Sikh Sangat living worldwide has condemned the move.
Wrong concept 2 provide wifi within Golden Temple complex, Peace of mind would not replace by Pace of Internet.
Outside the complex its OK— Harisimran Singh (@HarisimranSingh) May 1, 2016
@TimesNow why would someone need wifi at a sacred place like Harmandir Sahib? To connect with god? What stupidity!
— Bijay Mallick (@bjymlck) May 1, 2016
What is your take on the free WiFi service at Sri Darbar Sahib?
Should SGPC offer free WiFi access around Sri Darbar Sahib complex in Amritsar?
— Sikh24 News (@Sikh24) May 3, 2016
Bhai Ji M Singh you have said I what I mean to say – they have their priorities completely in wrong order. Lets get Wifi and cannot do anything to protect our Guru Ji and not forgetting other issues like get rid of drugs, save farmers and list goes on……
If the SGPC is so hot on WIFI and internet communication why does it not install cameras and wifi in Gurdwaras across Punjab to monitor those who are committing beadbi of Guru Granth Sahib month after month in Punjab? No it is only interested in promoting selfies not Sikhi.
Again SGPC are focussed on totally wrong priority. Pilgrims are going to Darbar Sahib to commune with the Divine through Guru Granth Sahib but the SGPC are more interested in holiday makers being able to commune with the outside world with their smartphones and computers. Crass idiocy so typical of the SGPC which sees itself as a concierge hotel service.