SAD president Sukhbir Badal declared 'tankhaiya' by Takht Patna Sahib

Takht Patna Sahib has declared SAD president Sukhbir Badal “tankhaiya” (guilty of religious misconduct) due to his failure to appear before it.

Despite repeated summons, the Akali leader did not appear before the Panj Pyaras (five beloved ones) at the Bihar-based Takht. Instead, his party leaders stated that their president would follow the directions of the Akal Takht Jathedar in religious affairs.

On May 21, the Panj Pyaras (five beloved ones) at Takht Patna Sahib summoned the SAD president, for allegedly intervening in the functioning of the Takht, within 10 days. They had also declared Akal Takht officiating Jathedar and Takht Kesgarh Sahib Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj and Takht Damdama Sahib Jathedar Baba Tek Singh “takhaiya” for reinstating former excommunicated Takht Patna Sahib Jathedar Giani Ranjit Singh Gauhar and summoning the Takht Head Granthi and additional Head Granthi among others at the Akal Takht.  

However, citing ill health, Sukhbir Badal had sought more time. Thereafter, the Bihar-based Takht in mid-June issued a fresh edict granting him 20 days more to appear before the Takht.