Sri Akhand Paatth Interrupted by Local Authorities
NEW DELHI - Khalsa Aid, the international humanitarian organization, in a press release clarified that it is not involved in the ongoing tussle between the Delhi Police and the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) at a Tilak Vihar Widow Colony. The confrontation, which allegedly took place at an illegally occupied government complex, resulted in the forcible interruption of a Sri Akhand Patth that was organized on the premises.
According to news reports on SinghStation.net, an Australian Sikh News portal, these events were part of a power struggle and political drama being orchestrated by individuals linked to Akali Dal Badal, the BJP, and the Congress Party. (http://singhstation.net/2014/04/dsgmc-foul-actions-forced-delhi-police-to-intervene-amidst-akhand-path-sahib-in-tilak-vihar-delhi)
Contrary to rumors being spread regarding Khalsa Aid's direct involvement in this scrimmage, the organization strongly denounced such hearsay in regards to these unfortunate events at Tilak Vihar Widow Colony.
Here is a full transcript of Khalsa Aid's press statement which was issued on April 4th of 2014:
Delhi Police Raid Akhand Paath: Khalsa Aid Statement
Khalsa Aid (KA) is deeply saddened to learn of the events which have unfolded in Delhi on 3rd April 2014. These events resulted in a police raid where an Akhand Paath was taking place, with the forceful removal of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and a building being seized by the police near the Widows Colonies.
KA initiated relief projects in the Widows Colonies in latter part of 2013, this has included provision off educational, medical and welfare support. In January this year KA was offered a small area in a building but after careful examination of the documents related to this building, by a firm of lawyers in Delhi the KA team decided not to proceed as our lawyers were not fully satisfied by the legality of the occupation of the building. We are responsible to the Sangat and always carry out full checks before committing any funds.
KA has worked closely with Sardar Jagdeesh Singh from the colonies who has been identifying the needs of the residents. Sardar Jagdeesh Singh has not received any financial support for himself from KA. His association with KA was based on a mutual desire to assist and improve the lives of the residents of the Widow Colonies. KA is not affiliated with any political party anywhere in India and will always remain independent.
KA categorically state that there is no association between KA and the organisation or facilitation of this event.
It is deeply disappointing that some individuals and organisations have sought to gain political point scoring from such tragic events, by spreading misinformation in an effort to link KA to these events. These are highly defamatory and libelous accusations. KA legal representatives will now be dealing with this matter from here on.
KA would like to thank the Sangat for the on going and invaluable support, any queries can be addressed by emailing admin@khalsaaid.org
