Chandigarh/Amritsar, March 8 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday condemned the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for dismissing two Jathedars, calling it an act of “badlakhori” (vengeance).
The SGPC removed Giani Raghbir Singh as Jathedar of the Akal Takht and Giani Sultan Singh as Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. Sikh scholar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj was appointed to replace Sultan Singh and will serve as the acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht until a permanent selection is made.
Speaking at an event to flag off school principals for training in Singapore, Mann criticized political interference in religious affairs. “Politics should learn from religion, but here, politics is dictating religion,” he said.
Mann Slams SAD for Political Interference
Mann questioned the role of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders, including Sukhbir Singh Badal, in the decision. “You admitted your mistakes, accepted ‘tankhah’ (religious punishment), and now you are removing the Jathedars? This appears to be pure vengeance,” he remarked.
His comments referenced the Akal Takht’s December 2 ruling that imposed religious punishment on SAD leaders, including Badal, for actions taken by their government between 2007 and 2017. Giani Raghbir Singh and Giani Sultan Singh were among the five Sikh clergy members who had issued the directive.
Another of the five, Giani Harpreet Singh, was removed as Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib on February 10.
Controversy Over SGPC’s Decision
The SGPC justified Giani Raghbir Singh’s dismissal, stating his leadership was “inadequate in guiding the Panth (Sikh community)” and that his “inconsistent approach” weakened unity. However, the move has drawn widespread criticism.
Giani Harpreet Singh called the removals a “black day” for Sikhs, while several political leaders accused SGPC of using the Akal Takht for political purposes.
Mann reiterated the need for SGPC elections, raising concerns over growing political control in religious institutions.