SGPC chief inspects site at Golden Temple where tunnel-like structures were found

SGPC chief Bibi Jagir Kaur said a team of the archaeological department will visit the site on Monday for investigation after which a decision on the structures will be taken. Stating that the SGPC is committed to preserving the heritage of the site, she said the structures will not be touched until the truth about its history is established.

Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Bibi Jagir Kaur on Saturday inspected the site of Golden Temple’s upcoming Jora Ghar (shoe-house) where some tunnel-like structures were recently found.

Centuries old structures found during excavation on the premises of Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. (HT FIL)

She said a team of the archaeological department will visit the site on Monday for investigation after which a decision on the structures will be taken. Stating that the SGPC is committed to preserving the heritage of the site, she said the structures will not be touched until the truth about its history is established.

“If it is related to the Gurus or Sikh history, then it will be preserved for the Sangat,” she said.

Replying to a query, Bibi Jagir Kaur said, “So far, no concrete historical facts have come to light about the structures, but it is being speculated that these may have been buried during the demolition of the area for the construction of Galiara (corridor) around Sri Darbar Sahib.”

She further said some people were deliberately trying to tarnish the SGPC’s image. “I appeal to the Sangat (devotees) to read the facts. In fact, it was the SGPC that brought these structures to light, so there is no question of any historical or Sikh heritage being destroyed by the Sikh body,” she said, adding, “Everyone should wait till the report is received from the archaeology experts.”