NATIONAL: Indian Army Refutes Claims of Air Defence Deployment at Golden Temple
Official Denial of Deployment
The Indian Army has categorically dismissed media reports alleging the deployment of air defense (AD) guns within the premises of Sri Darbar Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar. The statement clarifies that no AD guns or related resources were stationed at the sacred Sikh shrine, countering earlier assertions.
Contradictory Claims by Army Official
In a recent interview with ANI, Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha, responsible for air defense operations, claimed that the head granthi of the Golden Temple had permitted the deployment of AD guns to counter potential drone threats from Pakistan. He further stated that the shrine’s lights were temporarily switched off to enhance drone detection, marking a historic first.
Strategic Context of Alleged Deployment
Lt Gen D’Cunha suggested that the deployment was a preemptive measure against Pakistan’s potential targeting of civilian and religious sites to create internal chaos. He emphasized the strategic visualization of threats to protect sensitive locations like the Golden Temple during Operation Sindoor.
Head Granthi’s Rebuttal
Giani Raghbir Singh, the head granthi of the Golden Temple, strongly refuted Lt Gen D’Cunha’s claims, labeling them as “propaganda.” He clarified that no army officer contacted him regarding any deployment, and no such activity occurred at the shrine.
Absence During Alleged Events
Giani Raghbir Singh noted that he was on leave in the United States from April 24 to May 14, during which the alleged conflict and deployment reportedly took place. He asserted that the timeline of events did not align with his presence in Amritsar.
Call for Investigation
The head granthi urged the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to investigate the army’s claims thoroughly. He recommended departmental action against any SGPC member found complicit in spreading or facilitating such claims.
Implications for Sacred Spaces
The controversy underscores the sensitivity surrounding the deployment of military assets in or near religious sites. The Golden Temple, a global Sikh pilgrimage center, remains a focal point for maintaining communal harmony and reverence.