Principle of “One Person, One Position” will apply at time of appointments of Jathedar says President SGPC
Amritsar, March 24 -The President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Harjinder Singh Dhami, made an announcement today in view of the current circumstances. He stated that respect of Jathedars and all Sikh organizations will be upheld within the Sikh Panth, and in the future, the opinions and advice of Sikh Sampradas will not be ignored regarding the positions of Jathedars.
In a statement issued here today, Dhami said that rules regarding the qualification, appointment, jurisdiction, and retirement of the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib will soon be established, and a high-level committee will be formed for this purpose. A resolution for this will be presented and approved in the upcoming budget session of SGPC. It will also be ensured that the principle of “one person, one position” is implemented for these respected positions of Jathedars. Under this framework, a new appointment for the vacant position of Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib will soon be made in consultation with Panthic sampradas and organizations.
The SGPC President emphasized that Sikh Rehat Maryada (code of conduct), traditions, and history are the guiding principles. These will not be overlooked, and steps will be taken collectively and in an organized manner so that the community can face emerging challenges with unity. Dhami further stated that adversarial forces are already making every effort to weaken Sikh institutions and Sikh power. If the community does not project unity, anti-Sikh forces will continue to succeed in their motives.
He also clarified that the retirement of Jathedars serving at Takhts will be conducted in a respectful and honourable manner. Efforts will also be made to honour the Jathedars who have been relieved of their duties in recent times, in recognition of their services.
He acknowledged that, given the current situation, serving as the President of the SGPC is no less than a major challenge, for which he is fully alert and aware. He mentioned that after resigning recently, many religious, social, and political groups, as well as respected Jathedars, encouraged him to continue serving, for which he is grateful. He expressed his commitment to living up to the trust and expectations expressed by all Sampradas and institutions.
