Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Sri Akal Takht summons Minister Harjot Bains, Language Dept Chief over 'disrespectful' martyrdom event in Srinagar
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), July 26, 2025:In a significant and serious development, the officiating Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, has summoned Punjab Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh and Director of the State Language Department Jaswant Singh over a controversial government-organized event in Srinagar commemorating the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
The Jathedar took strong note of the multiple complaints and widespread outrage expressed by the Sikh community, who found the nature of the program—allegedly featuring songs and dance—highly disrespectful and contrary to Sikh values.
Harjot Singh and Jaswant Singh have been directed to appear before the gathering of the five Singh Sahiban on August 1, 2025, at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, where they will be required to present their clarification and stand on the issue.
Jathedar Gargajj stated that despite ample time passing since the event, neither of the two officials has issued a clarification or apology. “When people in constitutional positions remain silent on deeply sensitive matters, it raises serious concerns. Respect for Guru Sahib’s legacy is non-negotiable,” he remarked.
He further underlined that this was the first time in Sikh history that a martyrdom centenary event was inaugurated with entertainment acts—something completely unacceptable to the Sikh ethos.
The Jathedar confirmed that the Panthic gathering on August 1 will also address other religious matters. Notably, singer Bir Singh—who faced similar criticism—appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib yesterday and issued an apology, which will also be reviewed during the session.
Sri Akal Takht Secretariat In-Charge Bagicha Singh confirmed that formal summon letters have been issued to both the Cabinet Minister and the Language Department Director, reinforcing the gravity with which the apex Sikh institution views the matter.