Mann calls Jathedars' removal an act of vengeance

Chandigarh

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday criticized the removal of two Jathedars, calling it an act of vengeance. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) recently dismissed Giani Raghbir Singh as Akal Takht Jathedar and Giani Sultan Singh as Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, appointing Sikh scholar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj in their place.

Mann expressed concerns over politics influencing religious matters, stating that instead of learning from faith, politics now dictates religious decisions. Speaking at an event to flag off a batch of school principals for training in Singapore, he emphasized the need for SGPC general elections.

Referring to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders, including Sukhbir Singh Badal, Mann pointed out their past acceptance of religious punishments and questioned their sudden decision to remove the Jathedars. He suggested this move was politically motivated.

The Akal Takht, the highest Sikh temporal authority, had previously issued religious punishments to SAD leaders in December 2023 for actions taken during their tenure from 2007 to 2017. Giani Raghbir Singh, Giani Sultan Singh, and Giani Harpreet Singh were part of the five-member clergy responsible for this decision.

Giani Harpreet Singh, removed as Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in February, condemned the latest dismissals, calling it a black day for the Sikh community. Several political leaders also criticized the decision, alleging political interference in religious matters.