Giani Raghbir Singh alleges violation of maryada in Jathedar appointment

Amritsar: Sri Harmandir Sahib’s Head Granthi, Giani Raghbir Singh, has alleged a serious violation of maryada in the appointment of Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj as Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht.

Speaking to the media, he said that he has received messages from sangats across India and abroad, protesting the alleged breach of tradition.

Earlier, former Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh had also accused the appointment process of violating dignity and likened it to a “murder of traditions.” Several organizations, including the Chief Khalsa Diwan, have raised concerns over the procedure.

Explaining the traditional appointment process, Giani Raghbir Singh said that the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) usually informs all Sikh organizations, sects, and Nihang Singh groups before the appointment. The ceremony is held at Sri Akal Takht, where the Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib formally announces the new Jathedar.

The newly appointed Jathedar is then ceremonially presented with turbans, first by the Head Granthi, followed by jathedars of other takhts, the SGPC president, and representatives of various Sikh organizations.

He said that while he respects his role as Head Granthi and does not wish to undermine it, he felt obligated to inform the Sikh community about the concerns raised regarding this appointment.