Damdami Taksal takes on Akalis, calls for gathering against SGPC’s jathedar reshuffle

In a statement released on social media, Dhuma said, “In light of the disrespect shown towards Sikh principles, the Takht Sahibs, and Panthic traditions, a major Panthic gathering will be held on March 14 at Panj Piyara Park, Damdami Taksal premises, Gurdwara Gurdarshan Prakash (Sri Anandpur Sahib). All members of the Sant Samaj, Nihang Singh organisations, Sikh institutions, and the entire Sikh Panth are humbly requested to participate with full enthusiasm and presence.”

While Dhuma did not name any SAD or SGPC leader, he stated, “The self-styled and egoistic approach of some individuals is hurting Panthic traditions and institutions. We must unite against this.”

Though various Sikh bodies have long criticised SAD, this marks the first time in nearly two decades that Dhuma has openly challenged the party and SGPC. He had stood by SAD, especially after the 2015 sacrilege incidents.

Dhuma recently surprised many by backing the BJP in the Maharashtra assembly elections, and since then, the Taksal’s Punjab spokespersons have hinted at a possible alliance with the BJP for the 2027 state assembly elections.

The Taksal’s proximity to SAD grew after the party formed the government in 2007. The SGPC, under SAD’s control, allowed Dhuma to construct a gurdwara in memory of Sikh martyrs killed during the army operation inside Darbar Sahib in June 1984—a move opposed by the BJP despite its alliance with SAD.

However, the Taksal’s ties with the BJP strengthened after the SAD-BJP alliance ended during the 2020 farmers’ agitation. This alignment also drew criticism from some pro-Khalistan groups abroad.

SAD has remained largely silent on the growing closeness between the Taksal and BJP.

“I don’t know what Harnam Singh Dhuma has said. Last I heard, he was supporting SAD and SGPC,” said SAD spokesperson Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal.

When asked if the Taksal’s ties with the BJP were influencing its stance on recent developments, he said, “It is possible. They can explain this better.”