Harjinder Singh Dhami, President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), declined the resignation of Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh from Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Talwandi Sabo on Thursday. He also directed ex-Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Virsa Singh Valtoha to uphold proper behavior.
Simultaneously, Akali leaders met with Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and expressed regret for Valtoha’s statement.
Giani Harpreet Singh resigned on Wednesday evening due to being disturbed by Valtoha’s accusations. Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh instructed the SGPC to reject the resignation. Dhami, the SGPC President, expressed that the Sikh community urgently requires the services of Giani Harpreet Singh at this time.
Giani Harpreet Singh should retain his position as the Jathedar in order to continue leading the community. Dhami directed Valtoha, a former Akali leader, to uphold proper behavior. Both parties need to work together to resolve the dispute and should refrain from making disrespectful personal remarks. He mentioned that the anti-Sikh factions in the nation are attempting to split the Sikh community through the strategy of ‘divide and conquer’.
The Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stated that if any complaints are made, harsh measures will be taken against individuals who disrespect the authority of the top leaders of the Sikh community. The Chief Minister conveyed in a statement that throughout history, the position of Jathedar of Takht Sahib has held the utmost power among Sikhs.
The disgraceful behavior of Akali leaders has been evident to humanity for a while now as they prioritize their own selfish gains over the dignity of Jathedar Sahib. The Akali leaders have disgracefully disrespected the Jathedar of Takht Sahib, a situation that cannot be accepted.
Akali leaders are displaying a haughty demeanor in order to support the political aspirations of a single family, a behavior that is strongly disapproved of. This family has caused extensive damage to Punjab, particularly the Sikh community.
The current behavior of the Akali leadership has deeply wounded the Sikh community, and those accountable for this disgraceful act will not be pardoned.
The Chief Minister emphasized that it is unacceptable to threaten Jathedar Sahib, use casteist language, or make derogatory comments about his family. If the government doesn’t get involved, those who harm Jathedar Sahib and his family will still face consequences when complaints are filed.
Severe measures will be enforced on individuals who engage in this offense, regardless of having fabricated online identities.