Controversy over dismissal of Sikh high priests sparks debate among Pakistani Sikhs

AMRITSAR: The recent controversy surrounding the removal and appointment of Sikh high priests has sparked significant debate among Sikhs in Pakistan. Many have expressed discomfort over the unceremonious dismissal of their religious leaders by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). In response, they have invited the Sikh Sangat from across the globe to hold a Sarbat Khalsa at Nankana Sahib to discuss the issue and establish a transparent platform for the appointment and removal of Jathedars.
Deliberations on arbitrary dismissals
Former President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), Bishan Singh, informed on Friday that Sikh representatives from across Pakistan convened a meeting to deliberate on the alleged arbitrary methods used for the termination, removal, and appointment of Jathedars.
Bishan stated that during the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the lack of a clear procedure and established norms for these actions. The Sikh representatives emphasized the need for a formalized process, including a fixed tenure for Jathedars, to ensure consistency and stability within the Sikh community. Additionally, the independence of the Akal Takht Secretariat was also highlighted as a necessity.
Call for a global Sikh leadership platform
Harmeet Singh, a Sikh representative and PSGPC member who attended the meeting, stated that the representatives unanimously agreed that the SGPC should not have sole authority in making such decisions. Instead, they proposed the formation of a global Sikh leadership platform to oversee the appointment and removal of Jathedars, ensuring a more transparent, accountable, and inclusive process.
Discussion during Vaisakhi celebrations
Gurcharan Singh, a Sikh representative from Pacha Kalay village in the Banur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan, said they intend to discuss the issue with the visiting Sikh Sangat, including SGPC representatives, during the upcoming Vaisakhi celebrations in April.
Bishan Singh stressed that unilateral decisions regarding Sikh high priests have often led to mockery and disrespect from other communities, particularly Muslim brethren in Pakistan. He stated that the meeting concluded with a call for unity and collective efforts to preserve the sanctity of Sikh religious leadership and prevent further instances of humiliation.
Invitation for a Sarbat Khalsa
"We have extended an invitation to global Sikh representatives to convene a Sarbat Khalsa at Nankana Sahib to deliberate on this issue, form a platform for Sikh representatives from around the world, and we will bear all expenses for the Sarbat Khalsa," said Bishan Singh.