Amritsar: The officiating Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib and Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, has advised Punjab Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains to support the resolution of long-pending Sikh issues instead of interfering in internal Sikh affairs.
In a statement issued here today, Jathedar Gargajj expressed that he is pleased Harjot Singh Bains considers himself a part of the Panth, but the statement he made in the state assembly pertains to an internal Sikh matter, which will be decided by the Khalsa Panth itself, not the Punjab State Legislative Assembly.
He said that the SGPC President has already sought suggestions from the Sikh community and organizations regarding the rules pertaining to the Jathedars. If Harjot Singh Bains considers himself a part of the Panth, he should understand the appropriate forum for raising Panthic issues and share any suggestions through the proper channels.
Jathedar Gargajj mentioned that he respectfully requested Bains to ensure the construction of the road connecting the two Takhts — from Garhshankar to Sri Anandpur Sahib. He noted that Sikh body Kar Sewa Qila Anandgarh Sahib, with the support of the Sangat, is constructing about 10 kilometres of this road by themselves, which is actually the responsibility of the government as it collects taxes from the people.
Jathedar told Harjot Singh Bains that there are some important issues he should raise in the legislative assembly:
Propose a resolution to form a special investigation team to probe fake police encounters of Sikh youth and police excesses, and to ensure punishment for those responsible, including former DGP Sumedh Saini and other guilty officers.
Assist in the release of Bandi Singhs (Sikh prisoners) who have been imprisoned for over three decades, far beyond their sentences — a clear violation of human rights.
Make efforts to commute the death sentence of Zinda Shaheed Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana.
Pass a condemnation resolution in the Punjab Assembly for the massacre of thousands of Sikh youth.
Pass a condemnation resolution regarding the court proven murder of Shaheed Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra by police and support the film Punjab ’95 based on his life.
Condemn the 1984 military attack on Sri Darbar Sahib and Sri Akal Takht Sahib with a resolution in the assembly.
Express sorrow and pass a condolence motion for those who lost their lives in the Maur Mandi terror blast case, in which investigative agencies have yet to deliver justice to victims’ families.
Pass resolutions against the false, hateful narratives and propaganda targeting Sikhs.
Condemn and pass a resolution against the repeated granting of parole and furlough to Dera Sirsa chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim, which is an insult to the victim women and suffering families.
