Amritsar: The Akal Takht, under the leadership of Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, has pronounced religious punishment (tankhah) for Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal, former Akali ministers, and core committee members for religious misconduct during their tenure from 2007 to 2017. The Takht also revoked the honorary title Fakhr-e-Qaum conferred on the late Parkash Singh Badal, citing his role as Punjab Chief Minister during decisions that allegedly harmed Sikh sentiments.
‘Tankhah’ and Directives Issued
From the podium of the Akal Takht, Giani Raghbir Singh announced that Sukhbir Badal and other leaders must publicly acknowledge their guilt by wearing plaques around their necks. The leaders were directed to perform various forms of sewa (service), including:
- Cleaning washrooms at the Golden Temple complex for an hour
- Washing dishes and cleaning devotees’ shoes
- Serving at the Guru Ram Dass Jee Langar Hall
Due to his recent leg injury, Sukhbir was instructed to perform his sewa at the Golden Temple entrance while seated in a wheelchair, wearing a guard’s uniform.
Resignation Demanded
The Jathedar ordered the SAD’s working committee to accept Sukhbir Badal’s resignation as party president and report back within three days.
2015 Pardon Controversy
The Takht proceedings addressed allegations against Sukhbir Badal regarding his role in facilitating the controversial 2015 pardon of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim, who faced blasphemy charges. Giani Raghbir Singh asked Sukhbir to respond to accusations of his involvement in the pardon with clear answers.
Impact on Sikh Sentiments
The Akal Takht stated that the decisions taken during the SAD’s governance led to significant harm to Sikh sentiments, which necessitated these actions. The Takht termed these missteps as “sins” and emphasized accountability.
This move by the Akal Takht has added a significant chapter to the ongoing scrutiny of the Akali leadership’s actions during its previous tenure in power.
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