SGPC president condemns Centre’s denial of meeting with Akal Takht committee
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president, Harjinder Singh Dhami, has strongly criticised the Indian government’s insensitive approach towards the release of Bandi Singhs (Sikh prisoners).
Terming it a violation of human rights, Dhami stated that SGPC has been making continuous efforts for a long time regarding this serious issue affecting Sikhs.
“The central government’s negative approach has been a major obstacle, and is an insult to the principles of justice,” he said.
Dhami stated that several attempts were made to arrange a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss this matter. However, even after more than one-and-a-half years, the government’s response has been discouraging.
Dhami said that the Akal Takht had constituted a five-member committee to address the cases of Balwant Singh Rajoana and other Sikh prisoners. “Unfortunately, the Prime Minister did not even consider granting time to meet with the committee,” he said.
The Akal Takht committee had requested a meeting with the Prime Minister in December 2023. However, in a recent communication on March 21, 2025, the Centre officially declined the request, citing that the matter is under consideration with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Dhami questioned the government’s delay in deciding Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana’s case, despite Supreme Court orders. He noted that the Prime Minister’s office had suggested discussing the matter with the Home Minister, but the Ministry of Home Affairs hasn’t responded positively.
Dhami emphasised that Bhai Rajoana’s case, along with other Sikh prisoners, is deeply connected to Sikh sentiments. These prisoners have already served long sentences, highlighting the need for uniform justice without political interference.
The government must ensure justice for Sikh prisoners to prevent distrust among Sikhs. SGPC members, including Bhai Rajinder Singh Mehta, Gurmeet Singh Booh, and OSD Satbir Singh Dhami, were present during Dhami’s statement.
