Two 'forms' of the holy book of Sikhism, Sri Guru Granth Sahib, have been handed over to the Indian Embassy in Qatar. This incident took place in December 2023, when Qatari authorities confiscated holy books from an Indian citizen accused of running a religious institution without permission. After this incident, the Indian Foreign Ministry informed that the Qatari authorities have handed over both these forms to the Indian Embassy in Doha on 28 August.
The Ministry of External Affairs thanked the Qatar government
The Ministry of External Affairs has thanked the Qatar government in this regard and has appealed to all Indian citizens to follow local laws and rules. This appeal has been made especially for Indian citizens living in Qatar and other countries.
What is the whole matter?
The controversy began in December 2023, when Qatari authorities confiscated two holy forms on charges of religious activities without permission. Sikh community leaders have expressed concern after the incident came to light. The Indian Embassy assured to provide all possible assistance under local laws.
This information was given by the Ministry of External Affairs
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Qatar authorities have returned one form and assured that the second form will also be returned with respect soon.
Sikh organizations protest in Qatar
Many Sikh organizations in Qatar protested against this incident. They said, taking possession of the holy forms of Guru Granth Sahib in this manner is wrong and is considered extremely insulting.
Qatari authorities took the whole matter seriously
In this entire matter, the Indian Embassy tried to take appropriate action under local laws and ensured that the scriptures were kept respectfully. The Qatari authorities also took the matter seriously and expressed their willingness to return the holy books.