Operation Blue Star Anniversary: Clash Between Sikh Activists, Police After Group Denied Entry To Golden Temple

Amritsar: Sikh leaders, activists and police officers indulged in a small clash on Saturday morning after a group was stopped from entering the Golden Temple in Amritsar amid the lockdown.

Since the day marks the 36th anniversary of Operation Blue Star carried out by the Indian Army in 1984 wherein thousands of Sikhs had died, the leaders had gathered at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Golden Temple. However, they were later allowed to enter the premises, said media reports.

It may be noted that the government’s guidelines prohibit entry to religious sites and places of worship till June 7. The guidelines will be relaxed only from June 8.

Besides, the Ministry of Health has also released guidelines to prevent the spread of coronavirus at religious places/places of worship once they reopen.

As per the SOP, the devotees are advised to take off shoes inside one’s own vehicle as well as not to touch statues/idols/ holy books etc.

Moreover, face masks will be made compulsory for every devotee before entering the religious site, it added.

Also Read: Unlock 1.0: Hotels, Malls & Religious Places To Reopen From June 8