Giani Harpreet Singh, the Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib, has accused former Akali leader Virsa Singh Valtoha of launching a campaign of character assassination against him. The allegations, he claims, are an attempt to divert attention from recent decisions made by the Akal Takht concerning the restructuring of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).
In a video statement, Giani Harpreet Singh stated that the continuous personal attacks are politically motivated and linked to his involvement in pivotal decisions at the Akal Takht. He noted that these efforts aim to undermine his credibility and shift the community’s focus away from the pressing issues surrounding the SAD’s reorganization.
Despite the allegations, the Jathedar affirmed that he has no intention of resigning from his position.
“These clarifications are not about defending myself but ensuring that the Sikh community knows the truth,” he said.
The controversy has stirred debate within the Sikh community, with many questioning the motives behind the alleged smear campaign. Giani Harpreet Singh remains steadfast in his role, emphasizing his commitment to the Akal Takht’s decisions and the welfare of the Sikh Panth.
Three-Member Committee Formed to Investigate Allegations Against Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh
The Executive Committee of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) held a high-level meeting today at Gurdwara Degsar Sahib Katana (Ludhiana) under the leadership of SGPC President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami. The meeting deliberated extensively on a complaint filed by Gurpreet Singh, son of Gurdav Singh from Sri Muktsar Sahib, which includes serious allegations against Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib.
Following input from attending committee members, it was unanimously decided that an investigation into the allegations is essential to uphold the dignity of the Jathedar’s position. A resolution was passed to form a sub-committee for the probe, comprising senior SGPC members Raghujit Singh Virk, General Secretary Sher Singh Mandwala, and Executive Member Daljit Singh Bhinder. This committee has been tasked with completing the investigation and submitting its report within 15 days.
During the investigation, it was decided that the primary duties and responsibilities of the Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Jathedar would temporarily be carried out by the Takht’s Head Granthi.
The meeting was attended by SGPC President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, Senior Vice President Raghujit Singh Virk, Junior Vice President Baldev Singh Kalyan, General Secretary Sher Singh Mandwala, and Executive Committee members, including Harjinder Kaur, Surjit Singh Tugalwal, Paramjit Singh Khalsa, Surjit Singh Garhi, Daljit Singh Bhinder, Ravinder Singh Khalsa, Jaswant Singh Purain, Paramjit Singh Raipur, along with SGPC officials Pratap Singh, Sukhwinder Singh, Private Secretary Shahbaz Singh, and Incharge Azaddeep Singh.
This decision highlights the SGPC’s commitment to addressing allegations transparently while maintaining the sanctity and respect of Sikh institutions.