A significant controversy has erupted within the Sikh community as former students of the prominent Damdami Taksal seminary have voiced strong opposition against its present chief, Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma. The protest stems from an alleged violation of a religious edict issued by the Akal Takht during a recent function in Nagpur.
The Core of the Controversy: A Seating Arrangement
The function was dedicated to commemorating the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. According to the protesting former students, during this event, Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma was seated on a bench with his legs extended downward. This act is being contested because the Guru Granth Sahib was in ‘parkash’ (presence) at the venue, making it a site of high religious reverence.
Leading the charge is Ranjit Singh Damdami Taksal, a former student and the president of the Sikh Youth Federation (Bhindranwala). He has accused the Taksal chief of blatantly disregarding the Akal Takht's directives. Ranjit Singh referenced a specific hukamnama (edict) issued on November 22, 2013, which provided clear guidelines on seating arrangements in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Violation of Akal Takht's Directives
"This is a clear violation of the hukamnama," stated Ranjit Singh. He explained that the 2013 edict was issued to clarify a previous order from July 8, 2009, after the congregation (sangat) misunderstood or misused the rules concerning chairs and seating. The key directive was to install benches only in the veranda outside the area where the Guru Granth Sahib is in parkash.
To substantiate their claim, Ranjit Singh released a video from the Nagpur function. The footage reportedly shows the parkash of Guru Granth Sahib on one stage, while on a separate stage, Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma is seen sitting with legs extended downwards. Maharashtra's former chief minister, Devendra Fadnavis, and other political figures were also seated alongside him on this stage.
Formal Protest and Historical Significance
A large assembly of former Damdami Taksal students convened and unanimously decided to take formal action. They plan to lodge their protest with the officiating jathedar of the Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj.
The protestors emphasize the historical and spiritual weight of the institution. The Damdami Taksal was founded by the 10th Sikh master, Guru Gobind Singh, to impart deep knowledge of Gurbani. Its 14th head was the revered Jarnail Singh Bhindranwala. Given this legacy, the protestors argue that it is the foremost duty of the current chief to adhere strictly to edicts from the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikh authority, and not to violate them.
Despite repeated attempts by media, Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma could not be reached for his comments on the allegations, leaving his side of the story unheard as the dispute gains traction.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions within Sikh institutions regarding protocol, authority, and the interpretation of religious codes in modern public events.
