Akal Takht Sahib Annuls Patna Sahib Decision Declaring Sukhbir Badal ‘Tankhahia’; Calls It Unconstitutional

Amritsar (Gurpreet Singh): A significant gathering of the five Singh Sahibans was held today at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, where they unanimously annulled the decision by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones) of Takht Sri Patna Sahib, who had declared Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal as “Tankhahia” (guilty of religious misconduct).

Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargarj condemned the decision, terming it “beyond jurisdiction” and stating that it went against Sikh traditions and challenged the supreme authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. Jathedar Gargarj made it clear that the decision taken by the Panj Pyaras of Takht Sri Patna Sahib violated the doctrinal principles of the Sikh Panth and would not be recognized.

He said, “This decision is not just an unprincipled move but also a direct challenge to the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.” Alongside this, Bhai Gurdyal Singh, Head Granthi of Takht Sri Patna Sahib, has also been declared “Tankhahia.”

As per the resolutions passed during the meeting, the management committee of Takht Sri Patna Sahib, its members, and officials have been given 15 days to provide clarification regarding this matter. Failure to comply could result in strict religious action.

Earlier, the Panj Pyaras of Takht Sri Patna Sahib had also summoned Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargarj and Jathedar Tek Singh Dhanoa, which Sri Akal Takht Sahib had similarly declared unconstitutional.

Jathedar Gargarj stated that such decisions would be opposed to preserve the doctrinal sanctity of the Sikh Panth. The controversy has sparked widespread discussion among Sikh congregations. While some sections of the community have welcomed the decision of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, others have defended the actions of Takht Sri Patna Sahib and raised questions. All eyes are now on Sri Akal Takht Sahib’s next moves for further action in this matter.