Amritsar, July 30-Director General (School Education) Krishan Kumar and members of the editorial board of “Gian Sarovar”, an encyclopedia for primary classes, today apologised for the objectionable chapter on Bebe Nanaki at the Akal Takht here.Jathedar Akal Takht Giani Gurbachan Singh accepted the apology and directed the Sikh Sangat to consider the “Gian Sarovar” issue closed.President, SAD (Amritsar), Simranjit Singh Maan had complained about the matter to the five Sikh high priests, who forwarded the same to the Dharam Prachar Committee. Giani Gurbachan Singh said, after thorough examination, it was felt that the errors were inadvertently committed. He verified ‘Kharara’ (original text) of the encyclopedia and also copies of its proof readings. He advised intellectuals and writers to comprehensively study Sikhism before publishing any book.Krishan Kumar said as soon as the mistake came to their notice all copies were withdrawn and the printer was directed to re-publish it on its own expenditure. He said, on moral grounds, “I apologise to the Sikh community for hurting the religious feelings.” He informed that a request has been forwarded to register case against the printer, who had also tendered apology.“In order to carry out in-depth inquiry into the matter, a three-member committee, comprising head, Religious Studies Department, Punjabi University, Dr Harpal Singh Pannu, Director Languages Department and Director School Education (secondary) has been formed.” The committee would submit its report to Education Minister Upinderjit Kaur within 10 days.Besides, the Sarva Sikhiya Abhiyan has decided to withdraw the book “Balu De Wal” from schools. Jathedar Akal Takht Giani Gurbachan Singh said the book contained some factual errors regarding ‘Kesh’ and here today informed that the SGPC had asked former cine star and MP Raj Babbar to delete some objectionable portion on Kashmiris from his serial on legendary Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
© 2010 Punjab Star News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without providing a link back to the original content.