Even ordinary visitors arriving at Gurdwara Bangla Sahib solely for langar and a night’s rest are being harassed, according to a viral video and reports circulating on Saturday, July 25, 2026.The footage, shared widely by journalist Man Aman Singh Chhina and others, shows tense nighttime scenes near the gurdwara gates involving police personnel, confrontations, and visitors describing difficulties in accessing the premises. Devotees, travellers, families and the needy who traditionally rely on the open hospitality of the shrine report obstruction and intimidation, despite having no connection to any protest. This comes days after Gurdwara Bangla Sahib earned nationwide praise for opening its doors during the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) student protests around July 20–21. Sevadars provided shelter, continuous langar, water, first aid and resting space to injured protesters, stranded commuters and anyone seeking safety amid police action in central Delhi.Delhi Gurdwara History
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as one of Delhi’s most revered Sikh shrines. Originally a bungalow belonging to Raja Jai Singh of Amber in the 17th century, it became sacred when the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan Ji, stayed there in 1664. During a deadly smallpox and cholera epidemic, the young Guru compassionately served the suffering people of Delhi, offering healing water from the site (now the holy sarovar). Guru Har Krishan later left his mortal form in Delhi that same year. In 1783, Sikh general Sardar Baghel Singh constructed a shrine at the location. The present structure, managed by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), continues the Guru’s legacy of selfless service — free langar 24 hours a day and shelter for all, regardless of religion, caste or background. Sikh Community Response
Sikh voices have reacted with deep concern. Community members and online reactions stress that langar and night stay form the core of Sikh values of seva and sarbat da bhala (welfare of all). Many have questioned the heavy police presence and alleged restrictions at the gates, arguing that peaceful visitors must never face harassment. During the recent protests, DSGMC representatives and sevadars had publicly affirmed that “everyone is welcome” and that the doors remain open to serve humanity. Some reports now claim pressure on the management and blocked entry points, prompting calls for authorities to ensure free access is restored immediately. Sikh organisations and individuals have urged Delhi Police and the Lieutenant Governor to intervene so that the historic tradition of open hospitality is not compromised.As the video continues to spread, the incident has raised serious questions about balancing security with the fundamental right of devotees and the needy to seek Guru’s langar and shelter without fear. The Sikh community insists that Gurdwara Bangla Sahib’s doors — and its spirit of compassion — must remain truly open for all.
Disclaimer: This article and accompanying images are for informational and illustrative purposes only. Some visuals may be AI-generated or digitally enhanced and may not depict actual events or persons.Views expressed are based on publicly available information and analysis.