Amid growing resentment over the removal of Takht Jathedars, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has announced plans to establish new policies regarding the qualification, appointment, service span, jurisdiction, and relieving of Takht Jathedars. The new guidelines will implement the principle of “one person, one position,” meaning no more “officiating” or “additional” charges will be granted in the future.
In a significant development, SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami hinted at appointing a regular Jathedar for the Akal Takht. Currently, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the new Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, holds the “additional” charge of the Akal Takht, after dismissing Giani Raghbir Singh, who still serves as the head granthi of the Golden Temple.
The recent removals of Giani Raghbir Singh (Akal Takht), Giani Sultan Singh (Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib), and Giani Harpreet Singh (Takht Sri Damdama Sahib) have sparked criticism from several Sikh groups. These jathedars had been part of a high priest panel that imposed a religious punishment on Sukhbir Singh Badal and other Akali leaders in December 2022 for controversial decisions made between 2007-2017 that harmed Sikh interests.
SGPC president Dhami emphasized that, given the current situation, opinions from Sikh organizations, intellectuals, and sampradayas would be sought before making any decisions regarding the appointment or removal of Takht Jathedars. He further stated that a high-level committee would be formed to create rules for the Jathedar of Akal Takht, followed by other Takht jathedars.
Dhami also reassured that any retirements of Jathedars would be handled with respect and honor, and efforts would be made to recognize the services of those recently relieved from their duties. A resolution regarding the policy for Takht Jathedars will be presented at the upcoming SGPC budget session.
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