The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) ‘s removal of two Sikh seat chiefs (Takhat Jathedar) has sparked Controversy in Punjab, India.
The SGPC has dismissed Giani Raghbir Singh as Jathedar of Akal Takht. The committee accused him of failing to guide the Sikh community effectively and address contemporary issues.
The SGPC also removed Giani Sultan Singh from his role as Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj, a Sikh scholar, has replaced him. He will also serve as the acting Jathedar of Akal Takht until a permanent appointment is made.
Baba Tek Singh Dhanaula is now the Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib. This position became vacant after the removal of Giani Harpreet Singh.
Despite their dismissal, Giani Raghbir Singh and Giani Sultan Singh will continue to serve as the Golden Temple’s head granthi and granthi, respectively.
Punjab CM Calls Removal an Act of Vengeance
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticized the SGPC’s decision, calling it an act of vengeance. He stated that politics should learn from religion, not dictate it.
Speaking at an event in Punjab, he urged for SGPC elections. He emphasized that fair elections are essential for transparency in the committee.
The Akal Takht in Amritsar and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib are two of Sikhism’s five highest seats of authority. Their leadership changes have sparked widespread debate.
Rebel Akali Leaders Blame Badal Group
Rebel Akali leader Gurpartap Singh Wadala condemned the removals. He accused Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders, led by Sukhbir Badal, of orchestrating the move. He called it a “blatant attack” on Sikh institutions.
Wadala alleged that SAD leaders disregarded a December 2 decree from the Akal Takht. This decree had ordered the party’s restructuring by a committee set up by the Takht.
The Akal Takht formed a seven-member panel to oversee SAD’s membership drive and internal elections. Many saw this as an attempt to break the Badal family’s long-standing control over the party. However, SAD rejected the panel’s authority and continued with its plans.
Now-removed Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh had insisted that SAD accept the decree. His firm stance may have led to his removal.
Congress Condemns the Decision
Punjab Congress President Amrinder Singh Raja Warring also denounced the dismissals. He called it revenge against the Sikh community’s highest religious authority.
He linked the removals to a past decree that found former SAD chief Sukhbir Badal guilty of religious misconduct. The decree also stripped his father, Parkash Singh Badal, of “Fakhr-e-Qaum” (Pride of the Community).
Warring said this was one of the saddest days in Sikh history. He claimed the decision was politically motivated and aimed at silencing voices within the religious leadership.
Sikh Community Awaits Further Developments
The removal of two key Jathedars has triggered sharp reactions. While the SGPC insists it acted in the community’s interest, critics see it as politically driven.
Many Sikh leaders and organizations now demand clarity on the committee’s decisions. The controversy has intensified calls for reforms within the SGPC and SAD.
