SGPC’s Jathedar Ouster: A Power Struggle Shakes Sikh Panth?
The abrupt removal of Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on April 20, 2025, has ignited a fierce debate within the Sikh community. The controversy centers on the authority vested in the SGPC to appoint and dismiss the heads of the five Takhts, the highest temporal seats of Sikhism.
The lack of clear-cut guidelines governing the process has fueled the ongoing dispute. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), a prominent political party with significant influence within the Sikh community, has voiced its concerns over the manner in which the decision was made.
The incident raises critical questions about the governance and internal dynamics of the Sikh religious institutions. Many are questioning the transparency and accountability of the SGPC’s actions.
This power struggle carries significant implications for the unity and harmony of the Sikh Panth. The lack of established protocols for such crucial appointments risks further internal divisions and undermines the authority of the Takhts. The coming days will be crucial in observing how the Sikh community responds to this challenge.