The Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has called upon all Sikh legislators serving in the government to adhere to their conscience and actively support the decisions made by the Akal Takht regarding the state’s sacrilege law. This appeal comes amidst an ongoing dispute over the legislation, with the Jathedar asserting that the government’s claims of accepting all demands from the Akal Takht and the Sikh Panth are inaccurate.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Jathedar addressed a gathering prior to the commencement of the Miri-Piri Khalsa March from Gurdwara Khalsa Diwan. During his address, he emphasized that for Sikhs, the Guru Granth Sahib and the Guru Panth hold ultimate precedence. Any action or principle that compromises their dignity is deemed unacceptable.
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj clarified the Panth’s position, stating there is no opposition to stringent legal punishments for individuals found guilty of desecrating the Guru Granth Sahib. However, he firmly maintained that the custody, service, and sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib are exclusively the rights of the Guru Panth, and neither the government nor any official has the authority to interfere in these matters.
He further elaborated that any inspection of the saroops (sacred copies) of the Guru Granth Sahib in Sikh households by government officials constitutes a direct infringement upon religious freedom and the fundamental Guru-Sikh relationship. He reiterated that such actions are impermissible under any circumstances.
The Jathedar expressed disappointment that despite repeated clarifications, the issue continues to be misrepresented as fully resolved, which he stated is contrary to the truth. He urged Sikh Members of the Legislative Assembly to remember the eternal significance of the Guru and the Guru Panth over the transient nature of governments. He reiterated the demand that clauses to which the Sikh sangat has objected must be removed, as had been promised.
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president, Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, echoed these sentiments. He reminded the legislators and ministers of their prior assurances and pledges made in the presence of the Singh Sahibans to implement necessary amendments to the Act. He criticized the government’s response, describing their provision of an explanation letter as an apparent attempt to mislead the public. Dhami also highlighted that the Khalsa March’s objective is not confrontation but rather to raise awareness about the supreme authority of the Akal Takht Sahib and the rights of the Sikh community.
In a related development, Jathedar Gargaj also voiced significant concern over the escalating drug crisis plaguing Punjab. He described the current situation as grave, with narcotics reportedly being delivered directly to homes across the state, posing a severe threat to the youth and the future of the region. Addressing the growing trend of youth migrating abroad and the resultant demographic shifts, he appealed to Sikh couples to consider having at least three children each. This appeal, he stated, is crucial for preserving the community’s heritage and maintaining its presence in Punjab.
The Miri-Piri Khalsa March, which is now in its eighth day, was reportedly welcomed by local devotees in Faridkot before continuing its journey to Gurdwara Gangsar Sahib in Jaito for its subsequent stage.
The Chenab Times News Desk