Sri Akali Takht Sahib acting Jathedar issues 15-day ultimatum to govt over Sri Guru Granth Sahib amendment Act
PTC Web Desk: Sri Akal Takht Sahib acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has taken a firm stand against the Punjab Government over the controversial Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, issuing a 15-day ultimatum for revisions.
Addressing the media after meeting Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, the Jathedar said the government must convene a special Vidhan Sabha session to amend objectionable clauses in the legislation. He warned that failure to act within the stipulated time would compel the five Sikh high priests to assemble and take a decisive stand.
Jathedar Gargaj said Punjabi translation of the Act had been reviewed and several discrepancies were pointed out during discussions with the Speaker. Among the concerns raised was the use of the term “store” for Sukhasan places, which he described as inappropriate and insensitive to Sikh religious sentiments.
He also objected to provisions related to custodianship, public disclosure of information about sacred saroops (copies of Sri Guru Granth Sahib) and the proposal to assign unique identification numbers to each saroop. According to him, the Sikh community cannot accept such measures as they interfere with established religious traditions.
The Jathedar further criticised the Act for placing more emphasis on those responsible for the management and upkeep of the holy scripture, while allegedly not being stringent enough against those committing sacrilege. He cautioned that such an imbalance could alienate the community from core religious values.
Calling the legislation a direct intrusion into Sikh religious affairs, Jathedar Gargaj said while the government had the authority to enact stricter punishments for sacrilege, it had no jurisdiction to interfere in matters of religious maryada.
He also directed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) not to implement any directive requiring unique identification numbers on sacred saroops.
Commenting on the Chief Minister’s proposed “thanksgiving march”, he questioned its relevance, stating that the Sikh community has not accepted the Act. He termed the move as an “expression of arrogance” rather than gratitude.
Jathedar Gargaj further alleged that the amendment was drafted hastily within hours and uploaded online late at night, leaving the community with no opportunity for consultation or feedback.
He also indicated that those involved in performing ardas during the launch of the march from Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib could be summoned to Akal Takht if complaints are received. Referring to Sikh Rehat Maryada, he noted that individuals deemed in violation of religious conduct are not permitted to perform ardas at Takhts, and any violation would invite appropriate action.
- PTC NEWS
