Panthic forces must remain united, says Akal Takht Jathedar

Calling for a revival of ideology-driven Sikh politics, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on Friday asked the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) to undertake a deep introspection to reconnect with its roots and for its leaders to adopt the approach of sacrificing themselves for the betterment of the Panth . to regain trust.

The Jathedar was delivering his usual speech at the darshani deori of the Golden Temple on the occasion of Bandi Chhor Diwas (Diwali). He focused on Sikh politics amid consideration of the case of SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal, who holds the top interim Sikh post. Badal was found tankhaya (guilty of religious misconduct) for mistakes made by the party and its government between 2007 and 2017 following a complaint by rebel party leaders.

In the presence of SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami, he said, “Sikh politics has been sidelined and its future is uncertain. This dilemma has damaged the uniqueness of Sikh principles, institutions and traditions, which is a matter of concern.”

“Once upon a time, issues of natural resources and fundamental rights of Punjab were at the center of panthic politics. Political interests take precedence over panthetical interests. In such a situation, there is an urgent need to revive such Sikh politics, which is dedicated to the land of Punjab and the Guru Granth – Guru Panth,” he said.

Giani Raghbir Singh said, “Panthic power is divided into small factions. These factions need to unite and come together under the platform of Akal Takht Sahib.”

“The selfish approach of Sikh politics, devoid of ideology, is no longer a source of inspiration for Sikh youth due to which the next generation of Punjab is finding their future in darkness,” he added.

Raising the issue of the 1984 Sikh massacre, Giani Raghbir Singh said the community was still awaiting justice for the massacre.

Along with his supporters, including radical leader Jarnail Singh Sahira, the 2015 Sarbat Khalsa-appointed parallel acting jathedar of the Akal Takht Dhyan Singh Mand also appeared at the event at the holiest Sikh shrine. He also delivered his message remembering the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh violence. He asked Sikh groups to bury differences in the name of unity.

Nihang organizations also gathered at Akal Takht in large numbers as per tradition to celebrate Bandi Chhor Diwas. There their heads were congratulated.