Chandigarh: Advocate Harnoor Singh has questioned what he described as the selective exercise of Panthic authority, urging the Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, to devote equal attention to the controversy surrounding the proposed changes relating to the Hazur Sahib Act in Maharashtra as is being given to the controversy over the alleged Bhagwant Mann video. His remarks come amid heightened debate over religious and political issues involving Sikh institutions.
In a strongly worded statement, Advocate Harnoor Singh said that if the Acting Jathedar could spare time from what he termed the “politics of clouds” surrounding the alleged Bhagwant Mann video controversy, he should also summon the Chief Minister of Maharashtra regarding the Hazur Sahib Act issue. He argued that Panthic institutions should demonstrate consistency in addressing matters affecting the Sikh community.
According to Advocate Harnoor Singh, the authority and dignity of Sri Akal Takht Sahib should not be perceived as being exercised only in politically charged controversies. He maintained that Sikhs across the world expect religious institutions to intervene with the same seriousness on issues directly affecting Sikh religious institutions and Panthic interests, irrespective of the political party or government involved.
He further stated that concerns surrounding the Hazur Sahib Act have generated widespread discussion within sections of the Sikh community and deserve the same level of institutional attention. He emphasized that equal standards should be applied in all matters of religious significance so that the Sikh community retains confidence in the impartiality of Panthic institutions.
Advocate Harnoor Singh concluded by saying that Sikhs should feel reassured that the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib is exercised fairly, consistently, and without political considerations. He added that religious institutions strengthen their credibility when they address all significant Panthic issues with equal resolve rather than appearing selective in their interventions.