Punjab Police have arrested a fashion designer and lifestyle influencer for “hurting religious sentiments” by performing yoga at the Golden Temple.
The case was registered after the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) filed a complaint against fashion designer Archana Makwana.
Police said on Sunday they had booked her under Section 295-A of the Indian Penal Code (intentionally and maliciously insulting the religious feelings of any class). The case was registered on Saturday.
The SGPC on Saturday said it had filed a police complaint against Makwana for “hurting religious sentiments” by performing yoga at the Golden Temple and sharing the photos on social media.
Makwana, however, apologised for his actions and said he had no intention of hurting anyone’s religious sentiments.
On International Yoga Day on Friday, Makwana visited the Golden Temple and performed yoga on the ‘Parikrama’ (pilgrimage) path.
The SGPC, the apex body of gurdwaras, has also suspended three officials for not discharging their duties dutifully.
“While no one will be tolerated for any action against Sikhs at the Golden Temple, some people deliberately disregard the sanctity and historical importance of this holy place and commit obnoxious acts,” SGPC president HS Dhami said in a statement.
“We have filed a police complaint as the sentiments and ‘mariada’ (act) of Sikhs have been hurt due to this,” he added.
Makwana later apologised for his actions in a story posted on his Instagram account.
“I had no intention to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments and posted it. I was not aware that performing yoga on the premises of Gurdwara Sahib could cause offence to some people. I was just paying my respects to him and did not intend to hurt anyone,” Makwana said.
“I am truly sorry for any hurt I may have caused and promise to be more careful in the future. Please accept my sincere apologies,” she added.
