BJP questions SGPC acting appointments for key Sikh posts

Amritsar: The BJP has questioned whether keeping key positions within the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) — including the Akal Takht jathedar and the Golden Temple head granthi — in an "acting" capacity is an administrative compulsion or a deliberate strategy to maintain centralised political control.BJP state spokesperson Sarchand Singh said on Tuesday that the post of Akal Takht jathedar frequently fluctuates between confirmed and acting status. "Giani Harpreet Singh served as the ‘acting' Akal Takht jathedar for nearly four years. When he was relieved in 2023, Giani Raghbir Singh, then jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, took over the role alongside his duties as the Golden Temple head granthi. However, following his removal in 2025, Giani Kuldeep Singh was appointed as Takht Kesgarh Sahib jathedar and ‘acting' jathedar of the Akal Takht. Later, when Giani Raghbir Singh took an extended leave before his retirement, the officiating charge of head granthi was handed to Giani Amarjit Singh." During the coronation of Giani Gargaj, several Sikh organisations and sects appealed for the appointment of a permanent jathedar at the Akal Takht, but the BJP functionary pointed out that no action was taken. He further alleged that other administrative roles, such as the secretary of gurdwaras, also continue to function under acting appointments. In response, SGPC chief secretary Kultar Singh Mannan defended the use of "acting" roles. He explained that positions are initially assigned on an officiating basis to allow Sikh organisations—including Singh Sabhas, Nihang groups, and various Sampardais—to evaluate the appointee. MSID:: 128971568 413 |