Amritsar, 13 February 2025 (Bharat Khabarnama Bureau) – Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh has strongly condemned the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee’s (SGPC) decision to dismiss Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh, calling it unfortunate, condemnable, and regrettable. His strong statement has made it clear that he fully supports Giani Harpreet Singh.
In a firm message on social media, Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh stated that after the Akal Takht’s decision on December 2, 2014, (against Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal), a malicious campaign was launched against the Singh Sahibaan, especially on social media. He termed this as a direct challenge to the supreme authority of the Akal Takht. He further stated that the removal of Giani Harpreet Singh is against the maryada (traditional code) of the Akal Takht.
Jathedar Raghbir Singh emphasized that only the Akal Takht holds the authority to investigate allegations against the Jathedars. He expressed deep pain over the ongoing situation and asserted that he is closely monitoring all developments. He also stated that the reasoning and the manner in which Giani Harpreet Singh was removed from his position were entirely inappropriate.
It is noteworthy that leaders associated with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had consistently run a defamation campaign against Giani Harpreet Singh. Former MLA Virsa Singh Valtoha had been actively fielded in the media to level direct accusations against the Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib.
The SGPC had formed a three-member committee to investigate the allegations against Giani Harpreet Singh, which subsequently recommended his dismissal. The SGPC executive committee, largely comprised of Badal family loyalists, then ordered his removal.
Reiterating his stance, Jathedar Raghbir Singh reminded that he had earlier warned SGPC that forming such an investigative committee was not appropriate. He condemned the manner in which a Jathedar was publicly humiliated and dismissed, calling it an extremely unfortunate act.
