The Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has officially reaffirmed its complete compliance with the directives issued by the Akal Takht, the supreme temporal seat of Sikhism, concerning the sensitive investigation into the missing Saroops (handwritten copies) of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib. This statement comes as the committee awaits the final report from the investigating panel formed by the Akal Takht Jathedar.
Awaiting the Final Verdict from the Supreme Seat
Senior officials of the SGPC have emphasized that the committee has fully cooperated with the investigation process mandated by the Akal Takht. The five-member panel, led by Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, was constituted by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh on April 18. Its primary task was to probe the circumstances that led to the reported disappearance of several Saroops from the SGPC's custody.
The officials clarified that all necessary documents, records, and access requested by the investigating panel were provided without any reservation. The panel has completed its inquiry and submitted its findings to the Akal Takht Jathedar, who will now review the report before making it public and issuing any further directives. The SGPC has stated it will respect and implement any decision or instruction that comes from the Akal Takht.
Commitment to Transparency and Sikh Principles
In their communication, the SGPC leadership stressed that the committee operates under the guidance of the Akal Takht and holds the utmost reverence for the Sikh tenets and institutions. The handling of Saroops of the Guru Granth Sahib is a matter of profound religious significance and responsibility. The officials expressed confidence that the investigative process has been thorough and that the truth will be unveiled through the proper ecclesiastical channel.
The case had sparked significant concern and debate within the Sikh community worldwide, raising questions about the management and protocol surrounding the sacred scriptures. The swift formation of the panel by the Akal Takht was seen as a critical step towards addressing these concerns authoritatively.
Next Steps and Community Awaiting Closure
The entire Sikh community now awaits the final pronouncement from the office of the Akal Takht Jathedar. The release of the report's details and any consequent actions will be pivotal in providing closure to this unsettling episode. The SGPC's reaffirmation of compliance is aimed at assuring the community of its subservience to the highest Sikh authority and its commitment to transparency.
This episode underscores the robust internal mechanism within Sikhism for self-governance and accountability. The role of the Akal Takht as the final arbiter on such sensitive religious matters remains paramount. The outcome of this investigation is expected to reinforce protocols and prevent any such incidents in the future, ensuring the sanctity and secure management of the Guru's Saroops.
