The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) convened a major Panthic gathering where Sikh organizations unanimously urged the Punjab government to ensure consultation with Sikh institutions before drafting any law related to sacrilege cases involving Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
The meeting was held at Teja Singh Samundri Hall at the SGPC headquarters and witnessed participation from prominent Sikh religious leaders, representatives of various Sikh organizations, Nihang Singh groups, religious institutions, missionary colleges, and Panthic sects.
SGPC President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, along with Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Jathedar Giani Tek Singh of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, and several eminent Sikh personalities attended the gathering.
Demand for Panthic Representation in Lawmaking
Speakers emphasized that governments must consult Sikh institutions and organizations while addressing matters related to Sikh religious affairs. They warned that any unilateral decision by authorities on sensitive Sikh issues would remain incomplete and unacceptable to the community.
Participants expressed deep concern over increasing incidents of sacrilege involving Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, describing them as extremely serious and emotionally distressing for the Sikh community. While strict punishment for offenders was widely supported, leaders stressed that legislation must align with Sikh ideology and Panthic sentiments.
They also highlighted the need for clarity in the proposed law to prevent misuse and called for deeper reflection on the root causes behind recurring sacrilege incidents and alleged governmental inaction.
Resolution Passed by Panthic Gathering
Following deliberations, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami presented a special resolution, which was unanimously approved amid slogans of religious affirmation.
The resolution reaffirmed that Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is regarded by Sikhs as the living Guru and supreme spiritual authority. It emphasized that the sacred scripture holds a unique status bestowed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and therefore requires legislation rooted in Sikh religious principles rather than purely administrative considerations.
The gathering stated that although previous governments attempted legal measures, no concrete or effective outcome had emerged. While welcoming the Punjab government’s initiative to frame a law, participants noted that the current process lacked Panthic consultation.
Call for Draft Law to Be Shared with SGPC
The resolution demanded that the Punjab government send the draft legislation to the SGPC so that collective Panthic feedback could be provided. Leaders stressed that the proposed law should not become a political tool but must reflect commitment toward protecting religious values, faith, and Sikh traditions.
Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj reiterated that any legislation concerning Sikh religious matters must be formulated only after consulting all Panthic stakeholders and the SGPC. He warned that laws framed without collective Sikh consensus would not be accepted.
The gathering concluded with a strong appeal to the government to respect Sikh sentiments and ensure meaningful dialogue before finalizing any legal framework related to sacrilege cases.
