SGPC issues 72-hour notice to Head Granthi Giani Raghbir Singh over allegations; warns of defamation action
The SGPC has directed Giani Raghbir Singh to either provide credible proof within 72 hours or face disciplinary action as per established rules
PTC Web Desk: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has served a 72-hour notice to Sri Harmandar Sahib’s Head Granthi, Giani Raghbir Singh, asking him to substantiate the allegations he recently levelled against the apex Sikh body.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the SGPC’s interim committee convened to deliberate on key Sikh affairs. The meeting was chaired by SGPC president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Advocate Dhami said the statements made by Giani Raghbir Singh in recent days had raised serious concerns. He stated that making allegations without concrete evidence while holding the esteemed position of Head Granthi at Sri Harmandir Sahib had adversely affected the image of the SGPC.
Advocate Dhami clarified that the allegations pertained primarily to issues concerning Gurdwara Bhatha Sahib and Gurdwara Amb Sahib. He maintained that the records relating to Bhatha Sahib were in order and that the accusations were unfounded. The SGPC has directed Giani Raghbir Singh to either provide credible proof within 72 hours or face disciplinary action as per established rules.
He further stated that if the allegations are not substantiated, the manager of Gurdwara Amb Sahib has been authorised to initiate defamation proceedings against the Head Granthi for allegedly misleading the Sikh community.
During the press interaction, the SGPC president also criticised the Union government over the continued incarceration of Sikh prisoners, including Davinderpal Singh Bhullar and Balwant Singh Rajoana.
Advocate Dhami accused the Centre of adopting a “dual policy” on the issue of Bandi Singhs’ release. He alleged that despite a change in government in Delhi, there has been no meaningful progress on the matter, pointing to the rejection of Bhullar’s release petition as evidence.
The SGPC reiterated its demand for the immediate release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences, asserting that justice and humanitarian considerations must prevail.