New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed concern to Qatar about the confiscation of two copies of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikh community, by Qatari authorities. The MEA announced on Friday that they are working to ensure that the sacred texts are returned respectfully. One copy has already been returned, and efforts are ongoing to retrieve the second one.
The issue arose when Qatar charged members of the Sikh community for holding religious gatherings without the approval of the Qatari government. During this crackdown, authorities seized two Swaroops (copies) of the Guru Granth Sahib from people who were reciting Gurbani, a Sikh devotional scripture.
What MEA spokesperson said
External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have seen reports regarding the Guru Granth Sahib seized by the Qatari authorities and the demand for their release by the Sikh community.” He added that the Indian government has already taken up the issue with Qatar and the Indian Embassy in Doha is keeping the Sikh community informed of the situation.
The MEA explained that the embassy has been providing assistance while respecting local laws. In its statement, the ministry said, “It is important to note that two Swaroops of Guru Granth Sahib were taken by Qatar authorities from two individuals/groups who were charged for running a religious establishment without the approval of the Government of Qatar. Our Embassy rendered all possible assistance within the ambit of local laws and regulations.”
One copy of the holy scripture has been returned by Qatari authorities. Jaiswal assured that the other copy is being treated respectfully, and efforts are ongoing to resolve the matter. He said, “One Swaroop of the Holy Book was returned by Qatari authorities and it was assured that the other Swaroop is also kept with respect. We continue to follow up the matter with Qatar authorities with high priority and hope for early resolution.”
