Ardas row: Probe over, Takht heads to take call on Jan 8

GS Paul

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, January 1

The panel set up to probe the desecration charges levelled against Cabinet Minister Sikandar Singh Maluka today submitted its report with Akal Takht.

The matter would be discussed in a meeting of the five high priests scheduled for January 8 at Akal Takht.

Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh said: “It appeared to be sheer distortion of Sikh ‘ardas’ during the function which has hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community. A meeting of five Takht heads has been scheduled for January 8 to discuss the matter and the action to be taken”.

The Jathedar confirmed that a clarification from Maluka has been received by them. “Maluka’s statement has been received by the probe panel through SGPC member Major Singh who was present in the function. The panel has mentioned it in its report. It is yet to be observed what Maluka has specified in his defence,” he added.

Another prominent issue to be taken up during the meeting pertained to Satnam Singh Pipli Wala who allegedly distorted Sikh history and used objectionable language about Mata Gujar Kaur.

The Jathedar said Pipli Wala had sought pardon and submitted his apology in writing to Akal Takht.

Maluka ready for atonement: Panel

Bathinda: The three-member probe panel led by SGPC vice-president Buta Singh Gurthari had summoned Sikandar Singh Maluka to Bathinda-based Hajiratan gurdwara on Saturday. He was reportedly asked to come out with his version on the controversial issue. Though Maluka could not be contacted, Gurthari said Maluka had maintained that the BJP and certain Hindu organisations had organised the event of his office opening and he had just participated. “Maluka said when ‘ardas’ started, he had started feeling uneasy. Maluka also said that he a devot Sikh and was ready to obey any order of Akal Takht for his atonement,” said Gurthari. tns