SGPC Terminates Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib

Synopsis
In a significant move, the SGPC has dismissed Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh of Takht Damdama Sahib following a guilty finding based on a complaint. The decision aims to uphold the Takht's integrity amidst allegations of misconduct.
Key Takeaways
- SGPC terminated Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh.
- Decision was made during an executive meeting in Amritsar.
- Giani Jagtar Singh appointed as interim head granthi.
- Complaint filed by Gurpreet Singh from Muktsar Sahib.
- Investigative committee confirmed allegations against Jathedar.
Chandigarh, Feb 10 (NationPress) Following a formal complaint, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has announced the dismissal of Giani Harpreet Singh, the Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib, from his position, effective immediately.
This decision was reached during an executive body meeting of the SGPC held in Amritsar. The SGPC president, Harjinder Singh Dhami, who presided over the meeting, did not provide any comments to the media regarding Giani Harpreet Singh's termination, which has been succeeded by Giani Jagtar Singh, the head granthi of Takht Damdama Sahib.
According to SGPC secretary Partap Singh, the dismissal was a direct result of a complaint lodged against Giani Harpreet Singh.
“Currently, Giani Jagtar Singh will take over the responsibilities. The SGPC panel's report found Giani Harpreet Singh guilty of the allegations, which was endorsed by the majority of the executive members, leading to the decision to terminate his services in order to uphold the sanctity of the Takht,” he stated.
The complaint, submitted by Gurpreet Singh from Muktsar Sahib on December 16 of last year, alleged misconduct on the part of Giani Harpreet Singh.
An investigative panel from SGPC, consisting of senior vice-president Raghujit Singh Virk, general secretary Sher Singh Mandwala, and executive member Daljit Singh Bhinder, examined the claims.
“Only three members voiced their disagreement during the meeting, while the majority supported the dismissal of Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh,” SGPC secretary Partap Singh remarked.
He emphasized that the investigation substantiated the allegations against the Jathedar, and the executive committee acted to preserve the honor and dignity of the Takht, which had been compromised.
In protest of the decision, three SGPC executive members—Paramjit Singh Raipur, Jaswant Singh Purain, and Amrik Singh—walked out of the meeting, claiming the decision was politically motivated.