‘Punjab govt cannot interfere in matters concerning Guru’: Akal Takht Jathedar on anti-sacrilege bill

On the occasion of Khalsa Sajna Diwas, which is celebrated on Baisakhi, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said vigilance of the Panth is the most effective safeguard, reacting to Punjab’s anti-sacrilege bill.

Referring to the 2022 incident at Sri Darbar Sahib, he said the alertness of the community prevented a major act of sacrilege. “Wherever the Panth is aware, such incidents cannot succeed,” he asserted.

Commenting on the proposed law by the Punjab government to prevent sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, he said that while strict punishment for offenders is necessary, the government cannot interfere in matters concerning the Guru.

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He maintained that issues such as printing or management of the Guru Granth Sahib cannot be brought under state control and must remain within the jurisdiction of the Khalsa Panth. He also questioned the delay in identifying those behind the 2022 sacrilege attempt.

Raising concerns over Sikh rights, the Jathedar highlighted instances where Sikh articles of faith (Kakaars) are reportedly being removed during competitive examinations and restricted at airports.

He questioned both the Punjab government and the Centre on why such incidents persist despite constitutional protections guaranteeing religious freedom.

He gave a strong call for unity, urging Sikhs to come together under the Nishan Sahib of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

Thousands of Sikh devotees from across India and abroad gathered at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib to mark the historic day with devotion and enthusiasm. A large congregation was organised by the SGPC.