A delegation of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) members has called upon Akal Takht officiating jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj to summon Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal to the Akal Takht. The move follows Badal's recent remarks reportedly describing the December 2, 2024, 'hukamnama' (edict) as a 'conspiracy.'
Delegation Submits Memorandum
Led by SGPC member Mithu Singh Kahaneke, the delegation met the officiating jathedar and submitted a memorandum. The group maintained that Sukhbir Badal's statement amounted to undermining the sanctity and authority of the Akal Takht. 'Such utterances belittle the supreme authority of the Takht and constitute a grave violation of Sikh maryada (religious code of conduct),' Kahaneke alleged.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy stems from Badal's earlier statements in which he reportedly labeled the December 2 edict as part of a 'conspiracy,' sparking debate and disquiet among Sikh institutions and political stakeholders. The hukamnama had held the SAD leadership, including Badal, accountable for alleged religious and political misconduct during their tenure and pronounced religious atonement.
Reacting strongly at the time, former Akal Takht jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh rejected the claim, asserting that the proceedings were conducted in accordance with established Sikh traditions. Raghbir Singh clarified that the Akal Takht had duly summoned SAD leaders, who appeared before the Sikh high priests, acknowledged their actions, and were subsequently awarded 'tankhah' (religious punishment) in line with panthic norms. He also maintained that the edict was neither arbitrary nor politically motivated but rooted firmly in religious discipline and accountability.
