Chandigarh/Amritsar:
In a rare legal move that has stirred controversy across Sikh religious and political circles, Giani Raghubir Singh, former Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has filed a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court against his removal from the position. He has accused the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) of succumbing to political pressures that led to his ousting in March 2025.
🛕 Political Interference in Sikh Institutions: Alleged
In his petition, Giani Raghubir Singh has stated that after being relieved as Jathedar, he was appointed as the Head Granthi of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, a position of immense religious honor in Sikhism. However, he claims that ongoing political tussles within the SGPC have begun to erode the sanctity of religious offices, and he has sought the court’s intervention to safeguard the dignity and purity of his current role.
He emphasized that the internal politics of SGPC are compromising the spiritual integrity of Sikh religious seats, making the situation grave for the Panth.
📣 Sarna Reacts Strongly: “Violation of Sikh Code”
Reacting sharply, Paramjit Singh Sarna, President of the Delhi Akali Dal, condemned the move, stating that a religious figure taking his grievances to civil court is against the traditions of Gurmat (Sikh religious code of conduct).
“Anyone holding such a sacred seat should understand its legacy—saints like Baba Buddha Ji and Bhai Mani Singh Ji have elevated the post with their service and sacrifices. Taking religious matters to worldly courts demeans that legacy,” said Sarna.
He demanded strict disciplinary action from SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami, including removal of Giani Raghubir Singh from religious services and transferring him to a purely administrative role.
📌 Religious Authority in Legal Crossfire
Sarna further claimed that the former Jathedar’s petition is not just a personal grievance but has put the spiritual institution of the Akal Takht in the dock, challenging the very prestige and principles that define the Sikh faith.
“You cannot hold a position of such spiritual authority and simultaneously challenge its sanctity in a secular court,” Sarna argued.
He stated that the court filing could undermine the public perception of Sikh institutions and set a worrisome precedent for future religious disputes.
⚖️ What’s Next for SGPC and the Sikh Panth?
The High Court is expected to take up the petition soon, and all eyes are on SGPC’s response. Legal experts indicate that the court may ask for clarification on whether internal religious matters fall within judicial review or not.
Meanwhile, the Sikh community remains divided—some argue for institutional transparency and protection from political interference, while others view the move as a breach of religious decorum.
