Why in news?
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee appealed to the Indian government in August 2025 to regulate the use of artificial‑intelligence platforms that were circulating distorted or inaccurate representations of Sikh teachings, history and sacred scriptures. The call highlights growing concerns about misinformation in the digital age and the role of religious institutions in preserving cultural heritage.
What is the SGPC?
The SGPC is the apex elected body of Sikhs responsible for managing historical gurdwaras and Sikh religious affairs in India and abroad. It operates under the spiritual guidance of the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikhism, and was formally recognised by the Sikh Gurdwaras Act of 1925 following the Gurdwara Reform Movement.
Historical context and functions
- The committee emerged in the early 1920s during the Sikh community’s struggle to free gurdwaras from hereditary custodians (mahants) and colonial control. It played a key role in movements such as the Nankana Sahib massacre protests, the Guru Ka Bagh agitation and the Jaito Morcha, symbolising Sikh self‑governance.
- Today the SGPC administers over 200 gurdwaras, conducts elections for a 191‑member governing body, and oversees educational institutions, hospitals and publications.
- It monitors and responds to incidents of sacrilege or misinformation and seeks to preserve Sikh cultural heritage and identity.
About Gurbani
Gurbani refers to the hymns and verses composed by the Sikh Gurus and contained in the Guru Granth Sahib, the central scripture of Sikhism. Sikhs consider these verses to be divinely revealed and regard the Guru Granth Sahib as the living Guru. The hymns are written primarily in Gurmukhi script and set to 31 musical modes called raags, emphasising themes of truth, humility, service and remembrance of the divine. Followers recite selections such as the Japji Sahib, Rehras Sahib and Kirtan Sohila daily as part of their spiritual practice.
Why the appeal matters
As digital tools become ubiquitous, misrepresentation of religious texts can spread quickly and erode trust. The SGPC’s appeal underscores the need for responsible AI governance and the importance of consulting subject‑matter experts before generating religious content. Protecting the authenticity of Gurbani is vital for the Sikh community’s spiritual life and cultural identity.