A significant congregation held at Takht Damdama Sahib on Sunday reaffirmed the opposition to specific provisions of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026. Sikh religious leaders and organisations denounced the legislation as an unwarranted interference in Sikh religious affairs.
Key Attendees and Context
The gathering was attended by prominent figures including acting Akal Takht jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, Takht Damdama Sahib jathedar Sant Tek Singh Dhanaula, and SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami, among others. This congregation took place following a 15-day ultimatum issued by the acting Akal Takht jathedar to the Punjab government, demanding the removal of what Panthic organisations consider objectionable provisions from the amended anti-sacrilege law.
Religious Leaders' Concerns
Religious leaders expressed that the law, rather than solely focusing on strict punishment for sacrilege, appears to fix responsibility on Sikh institutions, gurdwara committees, devotees, and granthis in cases involving desecration of saroops. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami clarified that the SGPC is not opposed to strict punishment for sacrilege but insists on removing certain provisions to align with the sentiments of the Sikh sangat. He stated, “We do not want confrontation with the state government, but it should respect Sikh sentiments,” and noted that no suggestions were sought from the SGPC while framing the legislation.
Acting Akal Takht jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj asserted that no government has the authority to frame Panthic laws and alleged that the amended law dilutes the Panth's authority over matters concerning Guru Granth Sahib. He declared, “I will continue fighting for the sanctity of the Akal Takht till my last breath. No such law framed against the wishes of the Panth is acceptable.” Takht Damdama Sahib jathedar Sant Tek Singh Dhanaula warned that government interference in Sikh religious matters would not be tolerated.
Further Allegations
SGPC executive member Gurpreet Singh Jhabbar alleged that the state government is acting in a manner similar to “Mughals and the British.” Meanwhile, Granthi Sabha president Jagmel Singh Chhajla claimed that some members of the Sikh sangat are depositing Gutka Sahib out of fear of legal action under the new law.
