New Delhi: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) Executive Committee (EC) has announced significant changes in the leadership of major Sikh Takhts.
Giani Raghbir Singh has been relieved of his duties as Jathedar of Akal Takht, while Giani Sultan Singh has been removed as Acting Jathedar of Takht Kesgarh Sahib. Both will continue to serve as Head Granthi and Granthi, respectively, at Sri Harmandir Sahib.
The EC appointed Sikh preacher Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj as the new Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, with the additional responsibility of serving as officiating Jathedar of Akal Takht. Baba Tek Singh, head of Bunga Mastuana, Damdama Sahib, has been named Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib. These decisions were made during an EC meeting chaired by SGPC Senior Vice President Raghujit Singh Virk on Friday.
Explaining the rationale behind the reshuffle, Virk stated that Giani Raghbir Singh’s leadership was deemed inadequate in addressing contemporary challenges facing the Sikh community. He highlighted concerns over growing divisions within Sikh institutions, threats to Sikh identity globally, and Raghbir Singh’s alleged failure to take a firm stance on critical Panthic issues. Virk also criticized Raghbir Singh’s inconsistent statements and lack of action on incidents that have undermined Sikh values, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among the Sikh Sangat.
"In today’s globalized world, the Jathedar of Akal Takht must provide strong, decisive leadership to protect Sikh interests. Unfortunately, Giani Raghbir Singh’s inconsistent approach weakened Panthic unity rather than strengthening it. Given these shortcomings, the EC decided to relieve him of his role as Jathedar. The appointment of a permanent Jathedar for Akal Takht will follow extensive consultations with Sikh institutions, Jathebandis, and Sampradas. Until then, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj will serve as Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht," Virk explained.
The EC also announced that the SGPC’s annual budget session will be held on March 28 at Teja Singh Samundri Hall in Amritsar. The budget for 2025-26, covering SGPC operations, gurdwara management, the Dharam Prachar Committee, educational institutions, and other related matters, will be presented for discussion and approval.
These changes reflect the SGPC’s efforts to address internal challenges and strengthen Sikh leadership amid evolving global and community concerns.