Former Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh calls service ceremony violation of Sikh traditions

Amritsar: Former Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh criticized the service ceremony of Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, calling it a violation of Sikh traditions.

He pointed out that the event took place without the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib and the Sikh Sangat, which he termed a “gross violation of maryada” in Sikh history.

In a video statement, Giani Harpreet Singh said that as per tradition, the first turban in the Jathedar’s service ceremony is given by the Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib. If unavailable, another granthi acts as a representative. This is followed by the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht or, in their absence, the Head Granthi of Sri Akal Takht.

He further said that turbans are then offered by Jathedars or Head Granthis of other Takhts and senior members of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), followed by representatives of Sikh organizations and sects, formally recognizing the newly appointed Jathedar.