Listen To This Post

Apex Sikh Body Acts After Failure to Provide Proof of Corruption Claims

Amritsar: In a major development within Sikh religious circles, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has relieved the Golden Temple head granthi, Giani Raghbir Singh, of his duties with immediate effect, following corruption allegations against the apex Sikh body and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).

The decision was taken during a special meeting of the SGPC executive committee, chaired by its president, Harjinder Singh Dhami, at the committee’s headquarters on Thursday.

Dhami confirmed the action, stating that the executive committee acted after Giani Raghbir Singh failed to submit written evidence to substantiate the serious allegations he had made publicly.

SGPC Says Reputation Damaged, Action Taken After Ultimatum Expired

According to SGPC officials, Giani Raghbir Singh had levelled corruption charges and questioned transparency in land deals while addressing the media in Jalandhar on February 18.

The SGPC had issued an ultimatum on February 19, seeking documentary proof to support his claims. However, the committee said no satisfactory explanation or evidence was provided, even after the deadline expired.

Dhami said the executive committee deliberated extensively before taking the decision, concluding that Singh’s actions had damaged the credibility and dignity of the institution.

“Serious allegations were made, but no supporting evidence was submitted. His actions have harmed the reputation of the SGPC and violated established norms,” Dhami said.

Action Marks Major Shift in Sikh Religious Leadership

Giani Raghbir Singh, who also previously served as the Jathedar of the Akal Takht, had issued a counter-ultimatum to the SGPC on February 22, demanding clarification on the corruption allegations against him.

His removal marks a significant development in Sikh religious administration, given his seniority and key role as head granthi of the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of Sikhism. The SGPC’s move underscores escalating tensions within Sikh institutional leadership and signals strict disciplinary action against officials making unsubstantiated allegations against the organisation.