Punjab’s AAP Govt Slammed By SGPC For Using ‘AI Image’ Of Golden Temple In Ad

SOURCE ; NEW18

Last Updated:May 24, 2025, 23:27 IST

SGPC chief Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami condemned the act as a ‘serious affront to Sikh sentiments’

Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami hit out at Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on Saturday for allegedly using a distorted, AI-generated image of Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in an advertisement. The ad sought suggestions for the forthcoming Sikh centenary celebrations.

Dhami condemned the act as a “serious affront to Sikh sentiments”. Before publishing any image related to the Sikh faith, the government should have consulted the SGPC, he stated.

The SGPC chief highlighted that the Golden Temple is the spiritual heart of Sikh devotion, revered deeply by the community worldwide. By using an AI-generated “distorted” image, the advertisement not only disrespects Sikh reverence and belief but also attempts to undermine the spiritual essence of the Darbar Sahib, cherished by every Sikh, he said.

Despite the availability of hundreds of authentic images of Sri Harmandar Sahib on the internet, the government chose to “distort one digitally”, which Dhami said he found deeply painful. He demanded a clear explanation and an immediate apology from the government.

Dhami also clarified that organising centenary events is the responsibility of the SGPC. The government’s role is to support development in cities associated with the Gurus, improve infrastructure, and collaborate with the SGPC to appropriately establish commemorative memorials, he said.

(With agency inputs)

First Published:

May 24, 2025, 23:27 IST