Navi Mumbai Sikhs want reinstatement of jathedars

The Sikh community in Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra has come together to express their strong opposition to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee’s (SGPC) recent decision on the appointment of jathedars. In a letter to the SGPC, the Supreme Council of Navi Mumbai Gurdwaras demanded the immediate reinstatement of previously appointed jathedars and the rejection of politically motivated appointments.

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The community has voiced serious concerns over the legitimacy and process of appointing and removing jathedars, which they believe should be in accordance with Gurmat traditions and Panthic sentiments.

They have also urged the SGPC to implement a transparent selection process for Takht jathedars, consulting all Sikh organisations, Sant Samaj, Nihang Singh sects and Panthic intellectuals before making any decision.

Jaspal Singh Sidhu, Chairman of Supreme Council of Navi Mumbai Gurdwaras said, “The SGPC decision has been met with widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an attempt to undermine the authority of the Akal Takht Sahib.

The community has warned that failure to uphold Panthic interests may result in strong opposition, including peaceful protests and Panthic boycotts.”

He said that the Sikh Sangat has traditionally looked up to the SGPC as the supreme authority for Panthic affairs. However, recent actions have diminished trust in its leadership, prompting calls for urgent corrective measures to restore the sanctity of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and other Takhts, he added.