SGPC Seeks Suggestions on Takht Jathedar Rules, Urges Centre to Decide on Rajoana and Bandi Sikhs

• Apr 17, 2025

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has called on Sikh intellectuals, organizations, and individuals to submit suggestions regarding the service rules for Takht jathedars. The appeal comes as part of an initiative to frame a clear policy on the appointment, jurisdiction, and removal of these key religious leaders.

During an executive committee meeting held at its headquarters, the SGPC also urged the Central Government to expedite decisions in the long-pending cases of Balwant Singh Rajoana, a death row convict, and other Sikh prisoners (Bandi Sikhs). The SGPC condemned the delay, calling it discriminatory toward the Sikh minority community.

In light of recent criticism over the abrupt removal of jathedars, SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said a policy based on collective input from the global Sikh community is being formulated. “We have already received a large number of suggestions. We urge prominent Panthic organizations and individuals to participate in this effort,” he stated.

Additionally, the SGPC passed a special resolution criticizing the Centre's “policy of delay” regarding the commutation of Rajoana’s death sentence, which has been pending since 2007. The resolution called for approaching the Supreme Court to seek directions compelling the government to act promptly. The SGPC also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure justice is delivered.