Akal Takht Acting Jathedar Rejects Government Authority Over Guru Granth Sahib
In a powerful address at Takht Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib on Baisakhi, Akal Takht acting jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj declared that no law can be imposed upon the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, which he described as the eternal Guru (Jagat Jot Saroop) of the Sikh community. His statement comes directly in response to the Punjab legislative assembly's recent passage of the Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
Punjab's New Sacrilege Bill and Sikh Response
The amended legislation modifies the original 2008 Act to introduce more rigorous penalties, including life imprisonment, aimed at deterring incidents of sacrilege. However, Giani Gargaj cautioned Sikhs against being driven solely by emotion and firmly stated that the government cannot dictate where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib is printed or demand its accounts. "If someone attempts to disrespect Sri Guru Granth Sahib with malicious intent, laws can be made against the offender. However, no law can be imposed on the Guru Granth Sahib itself," he emphasized.
He argued that such matters cannot be subjected to government control, nor would the Khalsa Panth accept such moves, as they represent direct interference in Sikh institutions. Any decisions regarding the Guru Granth Sahib must be made exclusively through the collective consent of the Khalsa Panth, he asserted.
Questioning Government Actions and Past Investigations
Giani Gargaj raised critical questions about the government's progress on past investigations, particularly highlighting the 2022 sacrilege incident at Darbar Sahib. He demanded clarity on why the identity of the accused remains unknown and who the masterminds behind it were. Referring to that incident—where a person jumped over a barrier with malicious intent—he cited vigilant guardianship as the only true solution to sacrilege.
"The Panth did not allow his plan to succeed because it was present and alert. Wherever the Panth is vigilant, sacrilege cannot occur," he stated, underscoring the community's role in protection.
Addressing Broader Sikh Concerns
The jathedar also dismissed narratives claiming that Sikhs are converting to other religions as false. "A true Sikh never changes their faith and is ready to lay down their life for it," he said, suggesting that those who wander toward imposters likely do not fully understand Sikhism or remain entangled in superstition. He called for increased efforts to propagate Sikh teachings rather than blaming the entire community for the actions of a few who go astray.
Furthermore, Giani Gargaj raised concerns regarding the removal of Sikh articles of faith (kakaars) during competitive examinations in Punjab and other states. He questioned whether the Punjab assembly had ever addressed this issue and called on both the central and state governments to explain why these incidents persist despite constitutional protections. He also highlighted the mistreatment of Amritdhari (baptised) Sikh employees at airports, questioning whether such restrictions constitute an infringement on religious freedom.
In summary, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj's address reinforced the Sikh principle of self-governance in religious matters, challenging recent legislative changes and urging greater vigilance and understanding within the community to uphold their faith's sanctity.
