PM Modi refused to meet Akal Takht panel formed to take up release of Sikh prisoners: SGPC
Harjinder Singh Dhami said the Centre's response to multiple attempts to arrange a meeting with PM Modi concerning the release of Sikh prisoners has been disappointing.
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Harjinder Singh Dhami. (File Photo)Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has refused to meet with the panel formed by the Akal Takht, the highest temporal body of the Sikhs, to pursue the release of Sikh prisoners.
Speaking at the SGPC office, he accused the Centre of ignoring the release of ‘Bandi Singhs’, calling it a violation of human rights, an affront to the principles of justice, and an injustice to the Sikh community. ‘Bandi Singhs’ are former Sikh militants who have been incarcerated in various jails across the country for over three decades. The demand for their release began over a decade ago, with the SGPC spearheading the cause.
Dhami said, “Sri Akal Takht Sahib had constituted a five-member committee to address the cases of Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana and other Sikh prisoners. Unfortunately, it is disappointing that the prime minister did not even consider granting time to meet with this committee representing the highest Sikh religious authority.”
Balwant Singh Rajoana was convicted for the assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh in 1995. Although he was sentenced to death for his role in the assassination, his execution has been postponed several times due to various legal proceedings and appeals.
Dhami stated that, according to a recent communication from the Central government, the request was officially declined on March 21, 2025, citing that the matter is currently under consideration by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
He said the five-member committee of Sri Akal Takht Sahib requested a meeting with PM Modi in December 2023 to discuss the issue of Rajoana and Sikh prisoners. Dhami further said that multiple attempts were made to arrange a meeting with Modi concerning this issue. However, he said after over a year and a half, the government’s response was disappointing.
Dhami stated that the SGPC has been making continuous efforts for a long time regarding this issue of Sikhs. However, the Centre’s negative approach has been a major obstacle, said Dhami.
Dhami asked why the government had not decided on Rajoana’s case despite orders from the Supreme Court. He noted that the Prime Minister’s Office had previously suggested that the matter be discussed with the home minister, yet the Ministry of Home Affairs had not responded favourably.
He stated that the cases of Rajoana and other Sikh prisoners are closely tied to Sikh sentiments, and they have already served long sentences. Therefore, the Indian government must act immediately without further delay.
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