Amritsar, March 8, 2025, Nanakshahi Samvat 556, 25 Phagun, (Bharat Khabarnama Bureau) In a significant decision taken during a meeting of the executive committee of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Friday, Giani Raghbir Singh has been relieved from the sacred responsibility of Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the supreme temporal throne of the Sikh Panth.
Addressing the Sangat after his removal from Sri Akal Takhat Sahib Jathedarship, Giani Raghbir Singh expressed his unwavering faith in the Guru’s will and accepted the decision with utmost humility and grace. He stated, “I have always considered my service as a blessing from Guru Sahib and have carried out my duties with complete dedication. The Guru’s command is supreme, and I bow my head before the divine will. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to serve the Panth and seek forgiveness from the Guru for any shortcomings during my tenure.”
Mentionably, the meeting, chaired by Senior Vice-President Raghujit Singh Virk, has appointed Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargej as the Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Giani Raghbir Singh has been entrusted with the esteemed role of Head Granthi of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib.
It is noteworthy that Jathedar Raghbir Singh refrained from commenting on the decisions of the SGPC executive committee regarding the removal of Jathedars and the duties of seven-member committee appointed by Sri Akal Takht Sahib for execution of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) membership. His silence on the issue has further fueled speculation about the internal dynamics and pressures within the SGPC.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions across the Sikh community and political circles. Defectors and rebels from the Sudhar Lehar of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), along with opposition parties, have strongly condemned the SGPC’s move to remove Jathedars. Critics argue that the decision reflects political interference in Panthic affairs, undermining the autonomy and sanctity of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. They allege that the SGPC’s actions are influenced by external pressures, which could weaken the moral authority of the highest Sikh institution.
Prominent leaders including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha Kultar Singh, from opposition parties have also voiced their concerns, calling the decision “unilateral” and “against the spirit of Sikh traditions.” They have demanded transparency in the decision-making process and urged the SGPC to uphold the principles of Gurmat and Panthic unity.
The appointment of Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargej as the Acting Jathedar and his tenure will be closely watched as he assumes the responsibility of addressing key religious and social issues facing the Sikh community.
This transition marks a pivotal moment in the leadership of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. The Sikh Panth looks forward to the continued guidance and wisdom of its leaders in upholding the principles of Gurmat and serving the community with unwavering devotion.
