Harjinder Singh Dhami Resigns as SGPC President Amid Controversy Over Jathedar’s Removal

Amritsar, February 17, 2025 – Harjinder Singh Dhami, the president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), has resigned from his post, citing moral grounds. His decision comes in the wake of strong criticism from Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh regarding the recent dismissal of Giani Harpreet Singh as the Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib. The situation has sparked tensions within the SGPC, highlighting the growing differences between Sikh leadership and key religious institutions.

Dhami announced his resignation during a hastily convened press conference, where he reaffirmed his commitment to the Akal Takht. He submitted his resignation to the SGPC executive committee and also demanded his removal from the seven-member committee formed by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) to oversee the organization’s new membership drive. His exit marks a significant moment in the leadership of the SGPC, as the organization has been under intense scrutiny over internal decisions that have drawn criticism from various quarters.

The controversy erupted following a Facebook post by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on February 13, in which he strongly condemned the dismissal of Giani Harpreet Singh from his position as Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib. In his post, Giani Raghbir Singh called the move “highly condemnable” and “unfortunate”, expressing deep disappointment over the SGPC’s decision. The criticism from the highest temporal authority of Sikhs, the Akal Takht, put immense pressure on Dhami, ultimately leading to his resignation.

While addressing the media in Amritsar, Dhami stated, “As the SGPC president, I take full responsibility for what has transpired. I have decided to step down on moral grounds with immediate effect.” His resignation signals a major shift within the SGPC’s leadership, with speculation rife about who will take over the position and how the organization will navigate the ongoing turmoil.

The removal of Giani Harpreet Singh has stirred debate within the Sikh community, with many questioning the circumstances behind the decision. Critics argue that the SGPC’s actions have not only undermined the authority of the Akal Takht but have also created divisions within Sikh religious and political leadership. The decision has also triggered discussions on the role of the SGPC in handling key appointments and whether political influence has played a part in recent developments.

As the situation unfolds, the leadership crisis within the SGPC is expected to be a significant topic of discussion in Sikh circles, with calls for greater transparency and accountability in the organization’s functioning. The Shiromani Akali Dal, which has traditionally held influence over the SGPC, is also under pressure to address the growing dissatisfaction among Sikh groups and religious bodies.

The coming days are likely to witness further deliberations within the SGPC regarding its leadership and decision-making process, as the organization seeks to restore its credibility and maintain unity within the Sikh community.

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