Amritsar (National Times): In a significant development, the acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has summoned Punjab Cabinet Minister S. Harjot Singh and the Director of the Language Department, S. Jaswant Singh, over a controversial cultural program organized in Srinagar. The event, held on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, has drawn criticism from the Sikh community for including elements deemed objectionable and disrespectful.
The Jathedar took serious note of the complaints received from various quarters of the Sikh Sangat regarding the inclusion of dance, songs, and entertainment activities in the official event commemorating Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s supreme sacrifice. Speaking on the matter, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj emphasized that such a format for a martyrdom centenary event is historically unprecedented and religiously unacceptable.
“Despite the passage of considerable time, neither the Cabinet Minister nor the Director of the Language Department has clarified their stand or issued an apology to the Sikh community,” Jathedar Gargaj stated. “When individuals holding constitutional positions fail to respond to serious religious concerns, it raises serious questions about their accountability and understanding of Panthic sensitivities.”
To address the matter, both officials have been directed to appear before the Panj Singh Sahibs during a scheduled meeting on August 1, 2025, at Sri Akal Takht Sahib. The meeting will focus on various Panthic and religious matters, including this issue.
On the other hand, Harjot Singh Bains has accepted the summons and said that he will appear before the Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
In addition, noted singer Bir Singh, who also faced backlash for his participation in the event, appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib on a previous day and has formally sought forgiveness. His case will also be reviewed during the August 1 meeting.
Sri Akal Takht Sahib’s Secretariat In-charge, S. Bagicha Singh, confirmed that formal summons letters have been sent to Minister Harjot Singh and Director Jaswant Singh, asking them to appear and present their side of the story.
The move by the Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority of the Sikhs, underscores the gravity with which the Sikh leadership views the matter. The summons marks a rare intervention, reflecting growing concerns about the preservation of Sikh traditions and the sanctity of commemorative events.
