Date: June 22, 2026
To
The Jathedar
Sri Akal Takht Sahib
Sri Amritsar Sahib, Punjab
Subject: Seeking Clarification Regarding the Public Gesture of Touching the Feet of Former Minister Sucha Singh Langah
Respected Jathedar Sahib,
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
I am writing to you in my capacity as Executive Director of the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), a non-partisan organization representing members of the Punjabi and Sikh diaspora across North America and other parts of the world.
Over the past several days, numerous members of the Sikh community have contacted our organization expressing concern and seeking clarification regarding widely circulated images and videos showing Your Excellency touching the feet of former Punjab Minister Sucha Singh Langah. As Sikhs who deeply respect the institution of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, they are struggling to understand the significance and circumstances surrounding this gesture.
Sri Akal Takht Sahib occupies a unique and unparalleled position in Sikh history. Established by Sahib Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, it represents the highest temporal authority of the Sikh Panth and serves as a symbol of justice, dignity, sovereignty and fearlessness. Throughout history, rulers, political leaders and influential individuals have appeared before the Akal Takht in humility and submission to its authority.
It is in this context that many Sikhs have raised a legitimate question. While Sikh teachings encourage humility and respect for all human beings, the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib is not viewed merely as a private individual. Every public action of the Jathedar reflects upon the institution itself. Consequently, many members of the Sikh community perceive the act of touching the feet of a political leader as inconsistent with the dignity and independent authority associated with the office of the Jathedar.
The concerns are heightened because Mr. Sucha Singh Langah was previously excommunicated by the Akal Takht in 2017 following allegations and circumstances that were deemed to have damaged the image of the Sikh community. Although he was later restored to the Sikh fold after accepting religious punishment and performing the prescribed seva, many Sikhs continue to distinguish between forgiveness under Sikh principles and the symbolic relationship between the highest Sikh religious authority and political figures.
NAPA respectfully seeks clarification regarding the circumstances under which this gesture occurred. Was it a personal act of respect toward an elder, or does it carry some religious, cultural or institutional significance that the Sikh community may not fully understand? Given the widespread discussion and concern that has emerged both in Punjab and among the global Sikh diaspora, your explanation would help address many questions and prevent misunderstandings.
Our intention is not to criticize or challenge the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. Rather, it is to seek clarity on a matter that has generated considerable debate and concern among Sikhs worldwide. Transparency and open communication can help strengthen public confidence in Sikh institutions and reinforce the reverence that millions of Sikhs hold for Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
We respectfully request your response to this important question at your earliest convenience.
With utmost respect,
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
Satnam Singh Chahal
Executive Director
North American Punjabi Association (NAPA)
Website: www.thenapa.com
Email: [email protected]