In a significant act of interfaith unity, the Damdami Taksal, a prominent Sikh seminary often viewed as a traditionalist body, has publicly come to the aid of a centuries-old Hindu temple committee in Punjab's Ajnala tehsil. The temple has been struggling for years against alleged encroachment and persistent harassment by a group of individuals, including drug addicts and peddlers.
A Temple Under Siege: Years of Harassment and Vandalism
The Puratan Shiv Mandir in Dudrai village has faced a distressing situation for a prolonged period. According to Ramesh Mehta, the president of the temple committee, a small group has illegally occupied approximately 2 acres of the temple's land. This occupation has severely disrupted religious activities, making it difficult for the priest to perform daily rituals without interference.
The problems extend far beyond mere encroachment. Mehta alleges that the miscreants have repeatedly broken open donation boxes, damaged essential infrastructure like tubewell motors, and even stolen religious items meant for worship, including ghee and oil. The atmosphere of intimidation has grown so severe that the temple's annual fair now requires police protection to proceed. Devotees, fearing repeated disturbances, have become increasingly hesitant to visit, leading to a sharp decline in attendance at the complex, which also includes locally revered sites like Jathera's Baba Rode and Baba Nath.
Despite numerous appeals to the local police and the court, the temple committee claims it has not received substantial relief, leaving the management in a state of despair.
An Unlikely Ally Steps Forward
Frustrated by the lack of resolution, the temple committee sought assistance from an unexpected quarter: Baba Amrik Singh Ajnala, the head of a breakaway faction of the Damdami Taksal based in Ajnala. In a move that underscores Sikh principles of protecting all places of worship, Baba Amrik Singh not only listened to their plea but also became a vocal advocate for their cause.
He provided crucial historical context, confirming that during the 1962 land consolidation, or chakbandi, 2 acres were officially allocated to the temple, with an equal portion given to the adjoining gurdwara, based on the consent of the villagers. He strongly condemned the current situation, stating, "Some drug addicts have encroached upon the temple's share and they even don't let the priest sit for performing his duties."
Sikh Principle of Respect for All Faiths
Emphasizing the core tenet of Sikhism that respects all religions, Baba Amrik Singh made a powerful statement. "Sikhs make no distinction between religions," he said. "We want our Hindu brothers to get their rightful land back so that devotees can offer prayers without fear." This public stance from a figure associated with a traditionally hardline Sikh group has sent a strong message of communal harmony in the region.
Taking concrete action, Baba Amrik Singh has directly appealed to the highest authorities in Punjab. He has urged Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav to intervene promptly. His demand is clear: ensure the temple committee receives justice and the freedom to operate without any intimidation or fear, restoring the sanctity of the ancient site.
This intervention by the Damdami Taksal (Ajnala) highlights a profound example of solidarity that transcends religious boundaries. It places the onus on the state administration to address a long-standing local issue, protect religious rights, and uphold the rule of law in Dudrai village.
