Leader of Dera Sachcha Sauda, Baba Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh should tender an “unconditional” apology to the Sikh Supreme seat, Akal Thakt for “posing” as Guru Govind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhs, thereby hurting the sentiments of the entire Sikh community.

“Baba is a self-proclaimed saint and is misleading innocent people,” said a member of the Sikh community when asked about his response to the sectarian clashes in Punjab.

Deccan Herald on Tuesday spoke to members of the community in the City to get their take on the issue. They were all of the opinion that Baba Gurmeet Ram Rahim should tender a formal apology to the Akal Thakt and restore peace in the region. “Expressing regret alone will not do.

He has committed sacrilege and he should apologise,” asserted another member.

Here’s what some of the others had to say:

K S Rekhi, general secretary, Sri Guru Singh Sabha - Was the Dera leader trying to compare himself to Guru Govind Singh ji? Does he know what kind of sacrifices the Guru had done? I also feel that this could be a political game as Congress supporters seem to be keen on destabilising the Akalis. Baba should tender an unconditional apology. It has become a matter of prestige now.

Jasbir Singh Thody, director, private firm - The Dera leader has clearly violated the Sikh code of conduct, according to which nobody can portray himself as a Guru. He has infringed on our religious faith. We will not remain silent. However, not all protests are violent; media is only focussing on protesters with swords. Many of us are holding silent protests.

Dolly Sethi, home maker - Baba was after publicity and fame but violence is wrong. The situation has become serious as the Dera leader is not trying to talk or listen to us.  We would forgive him if he apologises to the Akal Thakt. Our religion preaches forgiveness.
Karan Singh, businessman - Hurting other’s religious feelings is a sin but violence is not the answer. Baba should realise his mistake and stop being diplomatic.

Harminder Singh, editor, ‘Khalsa Bulletin’ - Baba is a self-proclaimed saint. He lives a lavish life and has a biscuit factory and restaurant inside his dera premises. CBI is also probing his bonafides. He is misleading uneducated lower class people.
Hanuman Singh, retired IRTS officer  - Let him have hundreds of people as his followers, but he has no right to offend our faith.