Chandigarh/Amritsar, 12 November 2024:The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) made major decisions, including forming a five-member committee that will address the government’s ban on Sikhs wearing kirpans during airport duty, aiming to approach the government to resolve the issue and safeguard Sikh religious rights.
The SGPC also plans to send a delegation to meet Pakistan’s ambassador, seeking to resolve concerns over visa cuts affecting Sikh pilgrims. Dhami mentioned issues with visa reductions for devotees participating in religious processions, stressing the need for fair access to pilgrimage sites.
Amid ongoing narratives targeting the Sikh community in Canada, Dhami rejected claims of temple attacks, asserting that Sikhs uphold the welfare of all communities and do not engage in violence against religious sites.
He also criticized attempts to frame recent clashes as attacks on temples, calling it a deliberate effort to defame Sikhs.
Concerns were also raised about irregularities in voter lists for upcoming Gurdwara elections. Dhami questioned the sudden increase in registered votes from 27 lakh to 51 lakh, suggesting possible misuse of Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha voter lists. He warned that delays in the election process would be unacceptable to the SGPC.
Addressing recent speculation about his meeting with Akali Dal President Balwinder Singh Bhundar and Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh, Dhami dismissed accusations of political maneuvering. He clarified that discussions on religious issues with the Jathedar or Singh Sahibs are routine and legitimate.
Dhami criticized reformist factions for attempting to pressure the Singh Sahibs into resolving disciplinary matters like a regular court case. He accused them of undermining the dignity of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, asserting that the SGPC would not tolerate such tactics.
