Bathinda, April 9, 2025 (Bharat Khabarnama Bureau): In a significant development just ahead of Baisakhi events, Baba Tek Singh Dhanaula formally took charge as the new Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib on Wednesday. His appointment comes as part of a major reshuffle announced by the executive committee of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which recently removed three senior Jathedars from their posts.
Baba Tek Singh replaces Giani Harpreet Singh, who had held the charge of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib alongside his controversial term as the acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib until 2023. The installation ceremony, held at the Takhat Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, was kept simple and solemn. It was attended by Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, the current acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, SGPC Secretary Partap Singh, and senior SGPC members Gurpreet Singh Jhabbar and Gurmeet Singh Trilokewala, among others.
Mentionably, the SGPC had removed Giani Raghbir Singh, the Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and Giani Sultan Singh, Jathedar of Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib. The SGPC executive committee cited the need for a “spiritual and administrative rejuvenation” of the Takhats, though rebels and opponents alleged the decision reflects longstanding internal dissent and dissatisfaction with the performance and public image of the removed Jathedars.
The removal of Giani Harpreet Singh is particularly notable, as his tenure was marked by several controversies, including meeting with BJP top brass, attending marriages of unbaptised persons, criticism over his political remarks and recent the diabolical decisions that were seen as deviating from Panthic traditions.
Speaking at the event, SGPC officials expressed hope that Baba Tek Singh, known for his simple lifestyle and grassroots engagement, would bring renewed credibility and Panthic discipline to the role.
The appointments come at a critical time when Sikh institutions face growing challenges from political interference, diminishing youth engagement, and global scrutiny. Observers believe that these leadership changes may pave the way for broader reforms in the SGPC’s functioning and its relationship with the Sikh diaspora. More announcements regarding Takht-level appointments and reforms are expected in the coming weeks as the SGPC continues its internal restructuring.
