Sri Anandpur Sahib (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Saturday visited Gurdwara Shishganj Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib to perform ‘Jode Di Sewa’, a voluntary act of serving devotees by managing their footwear. This service is part of the religious penalty (Tankhah) directed by Sri Akal Takht Sahib following a recent controversy over a government event.
On July 6, Bains appeared before the five Singh Sahibans at the Akal Takht to present his clarification regarding an official programme held in Srinagar to mark the martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The event drew strong criticism from Sikh groups after videos surfaced showing Bhangra being performed and songs by singer Bir Singh being played — acts considered disrespectful for the solemn occasion.
During his appearance, Bains admitted his failure to prevent the inappropriate proceedings. “I apologise to the entire Sikh community for the hurt caused by my actions and inactions,” he told the Sikh high priests.
After reviewing the matter, the Singh Sahibans imposed specific religious directives. Bains has been instructed to:
- Walk on foot to the sacred site of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and oversee repairs to the road leading there.
- Cover 100 meters on foot from Gurdwara Kotha Sahib and ensure repair and construction of connecting roads.
- Visit Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib in Delhi and offer a deg (community meal) worth ₹1,100.
- Perform voluntary service at a couple’s home in Sri Anandpur Sahib.
The Akal Takht also took similar action against others involved in the incident. Ranjit Singh from Jammu has been tasked with sweeping Gurdwara premises for 11 days, reciting daily Nitnem prayers, and contributing Rs 1,100 each towards the Deg and the Guru’s Golak. Gopal Singh and Som Nath Singh have also been held accountable.
The Akal Takht emphasised that while the Punjab Government may organise seminars and events on Sikh Gurus, such occasions must always preserve the sanctity of Sikh traditions. It is recommended that future programmes be planned in consultation with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
Religious leaders say the move is not just a matter of discipline but also serves as a reminder to public representatives to exercise cultural and spiritual sensitivity during religious and official functions.
