The sacred enclave of Gurdwara Pather Sahib in Leh Ladakh, traditionally a haven of spiritual tranquility, is presently besieged by a multitude of disconcerting issues, threatening the very essence of Sikh principles and sacred traditions. The sanctity of Gurudwara Pather Sahib is under siege due to an alarming disregard for Maryada, where fundamental principles and etiquettes are being forsaken, compromising the spiritual ambiance of this revered space. An egregious violation of the Gurudwara's sanctity unfolded with a film crew, engaged in a religious-themed movie shoot, disrupting the hallowed space. This not only disrupted the devotional atmosphere but also underscored a disconcerting trend of commercializing religious spaces for monetary gain.
A critical concern emanates from the lack of accountability in managing offerings and funds. Substantial amounts, reaching lakhs of rupees, are allegedly being directed towards the military without transparent records, raising questions about financial stewardship. The visible influence of high-ranking military officials on the Gurudwara's affairs raises serious questions about the preservation of Sikh traditions. Basic Gurudwara etiquettes appear to be disregarded, pointing to a need for a careful examination of the management structure. A palpable atmosphere of fear inhibits individuals from expressing concerns, perpetuating the prevailing issues. This silence impedes progress towards resolving the myriad challenges faced by Gurudwara Pather Sahib. Reports of fund misuse persist, with concerns brought to the attention of dignitaries yielding no concrete action. Financial irregularities continue unabated, casting a shadow over the proper stewardship of resources meant for the Gurudwara's well-being.
Initiating the process to register Gurudwara Pathar Sahib under the Gurdwara Act is imperative. This legal step will ensure governance in line with Sikh principles, offering a foundation for the restoration of order and spiritual sanctity. A joint committee comprising officials from the J&K Gurdwara Parbandhak Committees, high-ranking military personnel, SGPC and local representatives should be established. This committee would oversee the management, finances, and overall well-being of Gurudwara Pather Sahib, ensuring a collaborative effort to restore its sanctity and dignity. In conclusion, urgent and concerted efforts are necessitated to rectify the disconcerting situation at Gurdwara Pathar Sahib. By implementing these proposed measures, we can uphold the sacred principles of Sikhism and preserve Gurdwara Pather Sahib as a revered and respected pilgrimage site.
