Amritsar, Feb 15: Radha Soami Satsang Beas has initiated a crackdown on the use of cameras and mobile phones during official visits to prevent the commercial or political exploitation of its spiritual leadership. The Dera management has issued fresh instructions to ensure that the sanctity of the institution remains undisturbed by the growing influence of social media.
Under the new guidelines, the practice of clicking pictures with the sect head has been strictly discouraged. This shift comes amid a backdrop of increased political interest in the Dera, with various leaders frequently visiting the headquarters. By limiting the circulation of these interactions, the management intends to distance the institution from political rumors and maintain its focus on spiritual discourse.
“The sangat too has been appealed to refrain from clicking pictures as it vitiates the spiritual ambience of the revered place,” maintained a source familiar with the development. The individual affirmed that the policy is a proactive step to ensure that the Dera’s official information and activities are not misrepresented through unofficial WhatsApp or Instagram handles.
Despite existing rules requiring visitors to deposit phones at the entrance, the management observed that some residents and long-term visitors continued to record activities. The current verbal directive reinforces the ban on uploading motivational content or images of the Dera head to the internet. These measures are seen as a way to ensure that the Dera remains a place of worship rather than a platform for gaining political mileage.
