Shiromani Akali Dal Urges Dhami to Remain SGPC President
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Synopsis
On February 19, the Shiromani Akali Dal delegation met with Harjinder Singh Dhami, requesting him to continue his presidency at the SGPC following his resignation amid emotional distress and criticism from religious leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) appeals to Dhami to stay as SGPC President.
- Dhami’s resignation linked to emotional distress.
- Party assures support and seeks resolution.
- Dhami has been a key figure in SAD and SGPC.
- Resignation viewed as a setback for the Akali Dal.
Chandigarh, Feb 19 (NationPress) A group representing the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) convened with Harjinder Singh Dhami on Wednesday, urging him to retain his role as the President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
Party representative Daljit Singh Cheema informed the press that their meeting aimed to comprehend the reasons behind Dhami’s resignation as SGPC President.
"It is evident that Dhami's decision to resign stemmed from emotional distress. He has been affected by various matters, prompting his sudden resignation. We have assured Dhami that the party stands by him and the Panth requires his guidance during this pivotal time," he stated.
Emphasizing the Akali Dal’s commitment to addressing the issues surrounding Dhami’s resignation, Cheema remarked: "We will persist in discussions with him to find a resolution to all matters."
He further noted that Dhami has made significant contributions to both the SAD and SGPC, holding key roles because of his capability and integrity.
"At times, organizations must make difficult choices while fulfilling their responsibilities. Such decisions are essential, as the SGPC, established under an Act of Parliament, is responsible for appointing jathedars."
In light of the ongoing tension between the Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority for Sikhs, and the Shiromani Akali Dal, Dhami resigned from his position on Monday.
He stated that he resigned as a gesture of respect for Akal Takht Jathedar, Giani Raghbir Singh, and also offered to resign from the seven-member panel established by the Akal Takht Jathedar for the reorganization of the Akali Dal.
Dhami had faced criticism from the Akal Takht Jathedar for dismissing Giani Harpreet Singh as the Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib.
Acting President of Akali Dal, Balwinder Singh Bhundar, also did not attend the meeting of the seven-member panel led by Dhami.
Dhami’s resignation is regarded as a blow to the Akali Dal, which had previously pressured the SGPC executive committee to remove Giani Harpreet Singh, who significantly influenced last year’s decree from the Sikh clergy, which imposed tankhah (religious punishment) on Sukhbir Badal and other Akali leaders. While the Akal Takht serves as the paramount temporal seat of Sikhs, the SGPC is often viewed as a miniature parliament for Sikh matters.
