22-04-2025
Amritdhari Sikh, 4-year-tenure: SGPC receives jathedar appointment proposals
Amritsar: In a push for reform at the
Akal Takht
secretariat on the formulation of rules for appointment, retirement, or removal of the Akal Takht jathedar, Sikh bodies have submitted their suggestions to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (
SGPC
).
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
The chief administrator of Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib, Nanded, Vijay Satbir Singh, emphasised that the candidate for the position should be an
Amritdhari Sikh
, fully observant of the Sikh Rehat Maryada (Sikh code of religious conduct). The minimum educational qualification should be either a graduation degree or Giani certification. However, preference should be given to candidates holding a postgraduate degree in Sikh religious studies or theology, he suggested.
Given the responsibilities associated with the role, Tejbir Singh further said that the candidate must possess in-depth knowledge of
Gurmat philosophy
, Sikh religious scriptures, and the Rehat Maryada.
Regarding the selection process, he asserted that the election should be conducted by the elected members of the SGPC along with the current jathedars of the Takhts, adding that the process must be democratic, transparent, and accountable.
He also proposed that the jathedar's tenure be fixed at four years, with the possibility of a single term extension — not exceeding eight years. In case the removal of a sitting jathedar becomes necessary, it should only be executed with a two-thirds majority vote of the SGPC general house, according to him.
The SGPC earlier sought suggestions from Sikh organisations, sampradas, institutions, Singh Sabhas, Sabha societies, and Sikh scholars until April 20, but has now extended the deadline until May 20.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Bhai Bakhshish Singh of Akhand Kirtani Jatha has submitted a detailed 12-page proposal.
It stated that Akal Takht is the central seat of Sikh authority, from where guidance has historically been provided to the Khalsa Panth in addressing religious, social, and political challenges. According to Gurmat (Sikh spiritual principles), every Sikh is expected to wholeheartedly accept the decisions issued by Akal Takht through the collective leadership of Panj Piare (five beloved ones).
Stating that the current administrative condition of Akal Takht is a matter of serious concern for the Sikh community, he opined that there is an urgent need to overcome this decline. He said that the Akhand Kirtani Jatha has submitted suggestions regarding the qualifications of the jathedar, the process of selection, powers and responsibilities of the jathedar, tenure and procedures for retirement or removal, as well as the supporting administrative framework and financial resources of the institution.
To strengthen the administrative structure, he said the jatha has emphasised the inclusion of dedicated departments for religious affairs, political matters, economic planning, historical research, education, Sikh cultural affairs, interfaith relations, diaspora affairs, international relations, and media communications.
MSID:: 120517452 413 |
