Akal Takht Jathedar Insists on Amritdhari Sikh Officers for Missing Saroops Investigation
Amritsar, February 10, 2026: In a significant directive concerning religious protocol, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj has mandated that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Punjab Police, currently probing the case of 328 missing 'saroops' (sacred volumes) of the Guru Granth Sahib, must be composed exclusively of 'Amritdhari' (baptised) Sikh police officers. This announcement follows complaints from the Sikh community regarding alleged violations of religious conduct during the investigation.
Community Complaints Prompt Strict Directive
Addressing reporters in Amritsar, Jathedar Gargajj revealed that the Akal Takht Secretariat has received numerous letters from the 'sangat' (Sikh congregation) both in India and abroad. These communications highlighted a recent incident where the SIT allegedly violated Sikh 'maryada' (religious conduct) at a religious site in the Doaba region of Punjab.
"The investigation team inspected sacred saroops at the place of 'Sukhasan' (resting place), which contravenes established maryada and has deeply hurt Sikh sentiments," stated Gargajj. He emphasized that to prevent such occurrences in the future, these specific directions have been formally issued.
"In view of the suggestions and demands received from the sangat, it is essential that the probe be carried forward only by Amritdhari Sikh officers, who possess complete understanding of Sikh Rehat Maryada and the reverence due to Guru Sahib," the Jathedar asserted.
International Gurdwara Under Scrutiny
The Jathedar also addressed concerns regarding the Gurdwara Sahib Winnipeg South Sikh Centre in Canada, which is under consideration by the Akal Takht following complaints from the sangat. Allegations include tampering with a sacred saroop of the Guru Granth Sahib and that the gurdwara management is not Amritdhari.
Gargajj issued a stern warning to the office-bearers of the Canadian gurdwara, directing them to:
- Personally appear before the Akal Takht and submit their official stance within 10 days.
- Allow the sangat to visit the gurdwara while respecting their religious sentiments.
- Immediately cease all activities contrary to Gurmat (Sikh teachings).
Additional Religious Directives Announced
In other significant pronouncements, the Jathedar announced a ban on throwing colors on the sangat during Hola Mohalla celebrations at Sri Anandpur Sahib, labeling it an attempt to convert the Sikh festival into Holi.
"Throwing colors on the sangat during Hola Mohalla is against Sikh principles and is therefore strictly banned," he declared, though noting that Nihang jathas may apply gulal within defined areas during processions.
Accountability Demanded in Darbar Sahib Arrests
Responding to the arrest of two men by Punjab Police from the Darbar Sahib parikrama without the knowledge of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Jathedar Gargajj held the Punjab government and Home Department responsible.
"A complete report will be sought from the SGPC executive," he stated, demanding clarification on the personnel involved in the arrests.
Disciplinary Action Against Sikh Preacher
Regarding the case of remarks made against the reverence of Guru Nanak Dev in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib, Barnala-based 'kathavachak' (Sikh preacher) Gurjant Singh was summoned and appeared before the Jathedar.
Gargajj noted that while Gurjant Singh sought forgiveness, the matter is considered serious and will be deliberated upon by the 'Panj Singh Sahiban' (Sikh clergy). Until he is formally presented before the Akal Takht, Gurjant Singh remains barred from:
- Speaking from any religious stage.
- Performing 'kirtan' (devotional singing).
- Sitting on any Sikh religious platform.
These comprehensive directives from the highest temporal seat of Sikhism underscore the Akal Takht's commitment to upholding religious protocol and addressing community grievances with authoritative measures.
