SGPC takes step towards rapprochement

The executive body of SGPC also appealed for “solidarity” and said all Sikhs revered Bhagat Ravidass whose bani (verses) are an integral part of the Adi Granth.

SGPC chief Avtar Singh Makkar observed that though there were “conspiracies” to divide Sikhs,a major section of Ravidassias had stood by the Sikh religion.

“There might be a handful of followers who are in confrontation,but the majority has been following the teachings of Gurus,” said Makkar.

He said they were ready to hold dialogues with the functionaries of Ravidassia community on any issue.

The executive body also strongly condemned Akal Takht Jathedar Prof Darshan Singh Ragi,who had been expelled from the Sikh panth for his “offensive” remarks against Guru Gobind Singh.

Taking a strong view of the recent sharing of food and space with Ragis by various Sikh bodies in Chandigarh,Makkar said no one would be allowed to challenge the authority of the Akal Takht.

Warning those siding with the Ragi in violation of the Akal Takht’s edict of excommunicating him,Makkar said the SGPC would go to any extent to save the supremacy and honour of the Akal Takht from anti-Panthic forces.

He reiterated that Ragi had uttered derogatory remarks against the Guru at a gurdwara in the US and later refused to even appear before the Sikh clergy,and hence his expulsion was justified and fair.

The executive committee also approved the major programmes to celebrate the centenary of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur as Fateh Diwas from May 12-14 and requested the Government of India to issue stamps and gold coins in the name of the great warrior who waged war against the Mughals after the demise of Guru Gobind Singh.

“A procession will be taken out from Nanded to Fatehgarh Sahib,from Mehrauli to Fatehgarh Sahib and from Nangal Di Garhi to Mehrauli,” said Makkar.

In another decision,SGPC general secretary Sukhdev Singh Bhaur was re-nominated to the budget committee that will carry on the preparations of the annual budget to be presented in the SGPC general house next month.