AMRITSAR/CHANDIGARH (Gurpreet Singh) — Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj on Sunday issued a series of directives concerning the investigation into missing sacred saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, religious discipline, and several Panthic matters, while also raising concerns over recent administrative and policing actions.
Addressing the media at the Sri Akal Takht Secretariat, the Jathedar urged the Punjab government to ensure that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case of 328 sacred saroops consists exclusively of Amritdhari (initiated) Sikh police officers. He said the demand follows concerns raised by Sikh communities in India and abroad and recent complaints about violations of Sikh maryada during the investigation.
According to the Jathedar, members of the current SIT allegedly inspected sacred saroops at a Sukhasan location in the Doaba region in a manner considered contrary to established religious protocol, which hurt community sentiments. He said that officers familiar with Sikh Rehat Maryada and the required reverence for Guru Sahib should conduct the probe to restore trust.
In a separate matter, Barnala-based preacher Gurjant Singh, who was summoned over remarks considered disrespectful to the reverence of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, appeared before the Akal Takht and sought forgiveness. However, the Jathedar said the issue is serious and will be placed before the Panj Singh Sahiban. Until further proceedings, Gurjant Singh has been barred from delivering discourses, performing kirtan, or appearing on Sikh religious stages.
The Jathedar also addressed complaints regarding Gurdwara Sahib Winnipeg South Sikh Centre in Canada. Allegations include mishandling of a sacred saroop, non-Amritdhari management, practices contrary to Gurmat, and restrictions on the local sangat’s access. Office-bearers of the gurdwara have been directed to personally appear before Sri Akal Takht Sahib and submit their explanation within 10 days. They have also been instructed to allow devotees access and immediately halt any activities deemed inconsistent with Sikh principles, failing which strict Panthic action may follow.
Ahead of Hola Mohalla, which will be celebrated on March 4 at Sri Anandpur Sahib, the Akal Takht announced a complete ban on throwing colours on devotees. The Jathedar said the practice attempts to turn the traditional Khalsa festival into Holi, which is against Sikh traditions. While Nihang Singh groups may apply gulal within a defined ceremonial context, indiscriminate throwing of colours on the sangat will not be permitted, and the administration will be consulted to ensure enforcement.
Reacting to reports that two devotees were allegedly detained by Punjab Police from the parikrama of Sri Darbar Sahib without the knowledge of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the Jathedar termed the incident “highly unfortunate.” He said a detailed report will be sought from the SGPC and asked the Punjab Home Department to clarify the circumstances and identities of those involved, stressing that such actions within the shrine complex are unacceptable.
The Jathedar also took note of concerns raised by the sangat regarding a proposed paper mill near Sri Chamkaur Sahib. He said the survey for the project appeared to overlook the area’s historic religious significance and assured that the submitted report would be examined before any further steps.
