Amid growing outrage over a government-organised cultural programme held in Srinagar to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, the acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has issued formal summons to Punjab Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains and state language department director Jaswant Singh. The event, organised by the Punjab government’s language department, drew sharp criticism from Sikh religious bodies and sections of the community after videos showed musical performances and audience members dancing—an act many viewed as disrespectful in the context of a martyrdom centenary. Bains, the education Minister in charge of the language department, and Jaswant Singh have been asked to appear before the Five Singh Sahiban at Akal Takht on August 1 to present their explanation. Jathedar Gargaj said the officials had failed to clarify their roles or issue an apology despite public discontent on the matter. “It is for the first time in history that an event commemorating a Guru Sahib’s martyrdom began with songs, dance, and entertainment—something entirely unacceptable,” Gargaj stated. He added that individuals holding public and constitutional office bear greater responsibility and that continued silence from state officials on such a sensitive issue was concerning. The Jathedar also noted that singer Bir Singh, who had performed at the event and faced backlash for his involvement, appeared before Akal Takht on Thursday and offered a public apology, which will be reviewed during the upcoming meeting. Bagicha Singh, in-charge of the Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat, confirmed that summoning letters have been officially sent to both Harjot Singh and Jaswant Singh. The Srinagar event The event in question was held in Srinagar on July 24 as part of the Punjab government’s initiative to mark Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s 350th martyrdom anniversary. The language department had invited singer Bir Singh to perform. However, Sikh organisations, including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), condemned the use of music and dance in an event meant to honour the Guru’s sacrifice. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami called it a “direct affront to Sikh religious values”.
