Chandigarh, The IndUS Canada Foundation (ICF) has called for the resignation of SGPC President Kuldeep Singh Gargaj alleging that recent remarks and actions have led to confusion regarding Sikh religious principles and terminology.
The issue was discussed during a virtual meeting from Ottawa (Canada), convened by ICF which was attended by representatives of 28 Sikh temples and 17 Indian NRI associations from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and other countries.
According to ICF President Vikram Bajwa the term “Guru Dokhi” holds profound religious significance in Sikhism and has traditionally been associated with acts of disrespect or opposition to the teachings and sanctity of Guru Granth Sahib. He said that many members of the Sikh diaspora believe that extending such terminology to matters involving photographs or contemporary political disputes risks diluting established Sikh religious principles and the spirit of Sikh maryada. He further stated that Sikh institutions must remain committed to the teachings and principles enshrined in Guru Granth Sahib and should avoid ‘political instigated’ actions that may create confusion among the Sikh community.
During the meet questions were also raised about whether the Gargaj possesses the requisite scholarly understanding of Sikh theology to interpret and apply sensitive religious terminology. Representatives emphasized that the head of the SGPC should ideally hold higher qualifications in Sikh studies and demonstrate proven expertise in Masters in Sikh philosophy and maryada.
Several participants observed that dragging Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann into a religious controversy has created an avoidable political dimension to a purely religious matter. They contended that religious institutions should refrain from making statements that could be perceived as targeting elected representatives or influencing political narratives.
Members expressed concern that such interventions may be interpreted as attempts to shape public opinion ahead of upcoming elections in Punjab. They maintained that the SGPC must preserve its institutional neutrality and avoid actions that could undermine its credibility as an independent religious body.
Bajwa also appealed to leaders across the political spectrum including the BJP and Congress to rise above party lines and support the call for accountability within the SGPC. He urged them to stand in defence of democratic values and join the demand for the resignation of Kuldeep Singh Gargaj.
The meeting concluded with a collective advice for the SGPC to reaffirm its role as an independent religious institution dedicated to seva, education, social welfare and the spiritual guidance of the Sikh community worldwide.
