Punjab E News: The Global Sikh Council (GSC), representing Sikh institutions across the global diaspora, has expressed serious concerns over the recently announced 34-member advisory committee constituted by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to frame service rules for the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. While appreciating the SGPC’s initiative to establish a clear and transparent framework regarding the qualifications, responsibilities, appointment process and tenure for Jathedars, the GSC welcomed the public assurance of SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami that the principles of Sikh Rehat Maryada (SRM), Gurmat-based traditions and the concept of one person holding only one position would guide the process.
In the letter sent to SGPC President, the Council President Lady Singh Kanwaljit Kaur has strongly objected to the composition of the current committee, stating that many of its members are reportedly not adhering to the SRM and are promoting and associated with practices contrary to core Sikh beliefs.
The GSC pointed out that including individuals who do not follow the SRM or promote un-Sikh practices at their Deras, Bungas and Thaaths, could raise serious questions about the sanctity and credibility of the entire exercise. Furthermore, the GSC expressed disappointment that distinguished scholars and representatives from the global Sikh diaspora have been completely excluded from this important committee. The Council has emphasized that this exclusion not only alienates a significant section of the Khalsa Panth but also undermines the spirit of collective Panthic consultation.
In its letter the Global Sikh Council has demanded that the committee be reconstituted to exclude members who are not strictly abiding by the prescribed SRM. It has also suggested that all members of the committee should be asked to sign an undertaking affirming their full adherence to the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and their compliance with the SRM.
The Council has urged the SGPC to uphold its historical and religious responsibility with complete transparency, Panthic integrity and inclusiveness in the committee. The GSC has reaffirmed its willingness to support this important initiative and appealed to the SGPC to adopt a broader consultative approach that reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the entire Sikh Qaum, both in India and abroad. The GSC president has emphasised that this is a defining moment for the Panth to unite around the principles of Gurmat and to strengthen the moral authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
