BJP Questions SGPC's Use of 'Acting' Appointments for Key Sikh Religious Posts
In Amritsar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised significant questions regarding the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) maintaining crucial positions, such as the Akal Takht jathedar and the Golden Temple head granthi, in an "acting" capacity. The party is probing whether this practice stems from administrative necessity or if it serves as a deliberate strategy to centralize political control within the Sikh religious administration.
BJP Spokesperson Highlights Fluctuating Appointments
BJP state spokesperson Sarchand Singh addressed the issue on Tuesday, noting that the post of Akal Takht jathedar has frequently alternated between confirmed and acting status. He detailed a series of appointments, stating, "Giani Harpreet Singh served as the 'acting' Akal Takht jathedar for nearly four years. Upon his relief in 2023, Giani Raghbir Singh, then jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, assumed the role while also continuing as the Golden Temple head granthi."
Singh further explained, "Following Giani Raghbir Singh's removal in 2025, Giani Kuldeep Singh was appointed as the jathedar of Takht Kesgarh Sahib and as the 'acting' jathedar of the Akal Takht. Later, when Giani Raghbir Singh took an extended leave prior to his retirement, the officiating charge of head granthi was transferred to Giani Amarjit Singh."
Appeals for Permanent Appointments Ignored
During the coronation of Giani Gargaj, multiple Sikh organisations and sects made appeals for the appointment of a permanent jathedar at the Akal Takht. However, the BJP functionary pointed out that no decisive action was taken in response to these requests. He alleged that this pattern extends beyond top roles, with other administrative positions, such as the secretary of gurdwaras, also functioning under acting appointments, raising concerns about stability and transparency.
SGPC Defense of 'Acting' Roles
In response to the BJP's allegations, SGPC chief secretary Kultar Singh Mannan defended the use of "acting" roles. He clarified that positions are initially assigned on an officiating basis to allow Sikh organisations, including Singh Sabhas, Nihang groups, and various Sampardais, to thoroughly evaluate the appointee before making a permanent decision. This process, according to Mannan, ensures that appointments are made with broad consensus and careful consideration within the Sikh community.
The debate highlights ongoing tensions between political oversight and religious autonomy in Sikh institutions, with the BJP pushing for clarity and the SGPC emphasizing procedural diligence.
