Amritsar, February 10, 2025: In a significant move, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has relieved Giani Harpreet Singh of his duties as Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib. The decision, taken at an executive meeting held at SGPC’s headquarters in Amritsar, marks a crucial development in the leadership structure of one of the five Sikh Takhts.
A Controversial Dismissal
SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami chaired the meeting but refrained from engaging with the media regarding the decision. SGPC Secretary Partap Singh later confirmed that the termination followed a complaint filed against Giani Harpreet Singh, citing allegations of misconduct. Until a permanent appointment is made, Giani Jagtar Singh, the head granthi of Takht Damdama Sahib, will oversee the responsibilities of the position.
“For now, Giani Jagtar Singh will take over. The SGPC panel’s report confirmed allegations against Giani Harpreet Singh, and the majority of executive members agreed that his removal was necessary to maintain the sanctity of the Takht,” Partap Singh stated.
Investigation and Findings
The complaint, lodged by Sri Muktsar Sahib resident Gurpreet Singh on December 16, triggered an internal probe by an SGPC panel consisting of senior vice-president Raghujit Singh Virk, general secretary Sher Singh Mandwala, and executive member Daljit Singh Bhinder. Initially, Giani Harpreet Singh was suspended for a fortnight, with the suspension later extended to a month. Upon reviewing the panel’s findings, the SGPC executive committee concluded that he was guilty of the allegations and moved to terminate his services permanently.
Political Undercurrents and Opposition Protests
Not everyone supported the decision. Opposition members Paramjit Singh Raipur, Jaswant Singh Purain, and Amrik Singh staged a walkout in protest, claiming the move was politically motivated. They alleged that Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) members within the SGPC played a decisive role in the termination.
“The issue was never officially placed before us for discussion. The decision appears to be part of a larger hidden agenda,” Paramjit Singh Raipur remarked.
Additionally, the opposition pointed to the directives issued by the five high priests on December 2, in which Giani Harpreet Singh had participated, as a possible factor in his removal. They raised concerns that the probe report was not shared in writing and that the process seemed one-sided.
Uncertain Path Ahead
As the controversy unfolds, the SGPC’s decision has sparked debates within Sikh circles. While the committee insists on maintaining the spiritual integrity of the Takht, critics argue that the removal has political undertones. The future of Takht Damdama Sahib’s leadership remains uncertain, and the Sikh community awaits further developments in what is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for religious administration in Punjab.
