The Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the supreme temporal authority of the Sikh community, has issued directives concerning former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and his late father, former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal. These actions address past decisions perceived as detrimental to Sikh interests.
Sukhbir Singh Badal has been instructed to undertake ‘sewa’ (selfless service) as an act of penance. He is to clean the bathrooms and perform kitchen duties at several Gurdwaras, including the Golden Temple in Amritsar. This service is scheduled for December 3, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm, followed by participation in the community ‘langar’ (meal). This directive follows his unconditional apology for actions during his tenure from 2007 to 2017, which included favoring Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in the 2015 sacrilege incident involving the Guru Granth Sahib.
The Akal Takht has also withdrawn the title of ‘Fakhr-e-Qaum’ (Pride of the Community) from the late Parkash Singh Badal. This honor was originally bestowed in 2011 for his services to the Sikh community. The revocation reflects the community’s reassessment of his legacy in light of past events.
These decisions stem from the Akal Takht’s earlier declaration of Sukhbir Singh Badal as ‘tankhaiya’ (guilty of religious misconduct) for actions taken during the Shiromani Akali Dal’s governance, which were deemed harmful to Sikh interests. The directives aim to uphold Sikh principles and address grievances within the community.
Sri Akal Takht Sahib, established by Guru Hargobind Ji in 1606, serves as the highest temporal seat of authority for Sikhs. It plays a pivotal role in guiding the community on religious and social matters, ensuring adherence to Sikh values and traditions.