SGPC president flays Centre’s approach on Sikh prisoners

Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami has criticised the approach of the Government of India on the release of Bandi Singhs (Sikh prisoners) describing it as “insensitive”.

Terming it a violation of human rights, Dhami said the SGPC has been making continuous efforts for a long time regarding this issue concerning Sikhs. “The Centre’s negative approach has been a major obstacle which 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 in this regard. However, even after more than a year and half, the government’s response has been discouraging, he said.

Dhami stated 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 this committee,” he said.

He said that the five-member committee formed by Akal Takht had requested for a meeting with the Prime Minister in December 2023 to discuss the issue of Bhai Rajoana and other Sikh prisoners. He revealed that according to a recent communication from the Centre, on March 21, 2025, the request was officially declined with the justification that the matter is under consideration of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Dhami questioned why the government has not taken any decision on Balwant Singh Rajoana’s case, despite the Supreme Court orders. He pointed out that earlier, the Prime Minister’s Office had suggested discussing the matter with the Home Minister, but even the Ministry of Home Affairs has not given a positive response.

He emphasised that the cases of Rajoana and other Sikh prisoners are deeply connected to Sikh sentiments and they have already served long sentences.

He stressed that the rule of justice should be applied uniformly to everyone, and political considerations should not be allowed to interfere in such matters. The government must fulfill its responsibility by ensuring justice for Sikh prisoners to prevent any sense of distrust among Sikhs.