Akal Takht Jathedar Calls for Exclusively Amritdhari Sikh Officers in SIT Investigating Guru Granth Sahib Disappearance
In a significant development from Amritsar, the officiating jathedar of the Akal Takht, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj, has formally requested the Punjab government to ensure that the special investigation team (SIT) probing the mysterious disappearance of 328 saroops of the Guru Granth Sahib is composed solely of Amritdhari Sikh police officers. This demand stems from deep-seated community concerns and recent incidents that have sparked outrage among Sikhs worldwide.
Addressing Community Concerns and Maryada Violations
Speaking to the media at the Akal Takht secretariat on Monday, Giani Gargaj emphasized that the call for an Amritdhari-only SIT is a direct response to numerous suggestions and demands received from the Sikh community both in India and abroad. He highlighted specific objections regarding the recent alleged violation of maryada, the Sikh code of religious conduct, by a member of the Punjab Police SIT in the Doaba region.
"Due to the functioning of officers in the present SIT, doubts have arisen in the minds of the sangat, and several apprehensions have emerged," stated Giani Gargaj. He elaborated that during an investigation at a religious place in Doaba, SIT members reportedly violated established maryada by inspecting the saroops at the Sukhasan, or resting place, an act that deeply hurt Sikh sentiments.
"Therefore, it has become imperative that only Amritdhari Sikh officers—who possess a complete understanding of Sikh Rehat Maryada and the reverence due to Guru Sahib—should carry forward the investigation," he asserted. The jathedar stressed that, given the profound sentiments associated with the Guru Granth Sahib, it is essential for the investigation to be handled with utmost sensitivity and adherence to religious protocols.
International Gurdwara Management Under Scrutiny
In a related matter, the Akal Takht jathedar also addressed issues concerning the management of Gurdwara Sahib Winnipeg South Sikh Centre in Canada. Following complaints from the local sangat alleging tampering with a saroop of the Guru Granth Sahib, Giani Gargaj has directed the gurdwara's office-bearers to personally appear before the Akal Takht and submit their official stance within ten days.
Furthermore, he has mandated that the management must allow the sangat to visit the gurdwara while respecting their sentiments and immediately cease all activities contrary to Gurmat principles. This move underscores the Akal Takht's commitment to upholding religious integrity across the global Sikh diaspora.
Guidelines for Hola Mohalla Celebrations
Shifting focus to upcoming religious festivities, the officiating jathedar announced that Hola Mohalla will be celebrated at Anandpur Sahib on March 4. However, he expressed concern over recent trends observed during the festival, where complaints have been received about individuals indiscriminately throwing colors on one another and even on the Sangat.
"This appears to be an attempt to convert the unique festival of Hola Mohalla into Holi, which is unacceptable," Giani Gargaj remarked. He clarified that while Nihang Singh jathas traditionally apply gulal within a limited and defined area during their processions, the widespread throwing of colors on the sangat is unjustified and against Sikh principles.
Consequently, such practices have been strictly banned for the upcoming celebrations. "The administration will also be taken into confidence in this regard, and any violation will invite strict action," he warned. The jathedar appealed to the entire Sikh community to celebrate Hola Mohalla in strict accordance with the traditions bestowed by the Guru Sahib and to gather in large numbers at Anandpur Sahib to pay obeisance.
These directives from the Akal Takht highlight a concerted effort to preserve religious sanctity, ensure proper conduct in sensitive investigations, and maintain the distinct identity of Sikh festivals amidst evolving cultural practices.
