Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj Takes Charge as Jathedar Amid Controversy

Amritsar – Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj officially took charge as the Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib and later as the officiating Jathedar of Akal Takht in Amritsar. His appointment has sparked controversy, with opposition from Sikh and Nihang organizations.

As per Sikh tradition, a new Jathedar is given a turban (dastar) in an installation ceremony. This is usually done by the head granthi of the Golden Temple, or a representative appointed by him.

However, Giani Raghbir Singh and Giani Sultan Singh, who were recently removed as Jathedars but still serve as granthis at the Golden Temple, did not attend the ceremony. No representatives from Sikh organizations were present either.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) had announced the schedule for the installation at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, but due to threats of disruption from Nihang and Damdami Taksal groups, the ceremony was conducted early in the morning at 2:30 am instead of the planned 10:00 am.

The head granthi of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Joginder Singh, led the prayers (ardas), and the Panj Pyaras presented the turban to Giani Kuldeep Singh.

Later in the evening, an unannounced ceremony took place at Akal Takht in Amritsar, which was criticized by many. The controversy continues, with questions being raised about the way the appointments were handled.