SGPC defers to Akal Takht on Rajoana mercy petition

Amritsar: The executive committee of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Monday moved to refer the controversial mercy petition of Balwant Singh Rajoana back to the Akal Takht, while also hitting out at the central govt over alleged discrimination against Punjab's water rights.The decisions followed a high-level meeting where SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami addressed long-standing grievances regarding Beant Singh assassination case death row convict Rajoana, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), and upcoming religious centenaries.The Rajoana DeadlockThe committee spent significant time deliberating on the mercy petition of Rajoana, which has remained pending for 14 years. Dhami has noted that the petition was originally filed under the direct orders of the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikhism. Because Rajoana has recently demanded the withdrawal of the petition, the SGPC executive committee has decided to place the entire matter before the Akal Takht for a final review and commit to following the specific directions provided by the Sikh clergy.Friction Over WaterTurning to inter-state and central relations, the committee issued a sharp rebuke of the Centre's "management" of the Bhakra Beas Management Board. Dhami termed the current central approach "discriminatory" and warned the govt that any policy diluting Punjab's rights over its river waters would be met with strong opposition. The committee has said that the current trajectory undermines the state's historical and geographical interests.Religious CommemorationsThe SGPC also greenlit several major cultural and religious initiatives. For the 650th anniversary of Bhagat Ravidas, a dedicated sub-committee has been formed to draft a roadmap for celebrations. This group will consult with Ravidasia community leaders to ensure the programmes are inclusive and representative. Plans were also finalised for the 400th Foundation Day of Kiratpur Sahib, scheduled to take place from April 29 to May 1.Aid for the Accident-HitIn a gesture of communal support, the committee approved a relief package for the families of devotees killed in a recent road accident near Fatehgarh Sahib. The victims were returning from Khalsa Sajna Diwas (Baisakhi) celebrations at Anandpur Sahib when the tragedy occurred. The SGPC will provide each of the bereaved families with ₹1 lakh. MSID:: 130390275 413 |
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