
The Sikh high priests, who met today at Akal Takht for the first time after the appointment of Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh, today termed the demand for a separate SGPC in Haryana as a 8220;political conspiracy to weaken Sikh power8221;. The high priests, instead, sought implementation of the Gurdwara Act.
Jathedar Gurbachan Singh said there were no division between the Takhts on the issue of the Nanakshahi Calendar and it could be amended in consultation with experts if any change is required. The meeting was held to discuss issues pertaining to the centenary celebrations of the Sikh holy scriptures.
Addressing mediapersons after the meeting, Giani Gurbachan Singh said the Sikh community should not be swayed by the demand for a separate SGPC for Haryana.
8220;This demand is politically motivated and aimed at weakening the Sikh community,8221; he said. He added that parties having any kind of grudge related to gurdwara management could consult the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee for redressal of their complaints.
Meanwhile, SGPC secretary Dilmegh Singh has been appointed in charge of the centenary celebrations in place of Harbeant Singh, secretary, who is abroad at the moment, while Manjit Singh has been appointed PA to SGPC chief Avtar Singh Makkar in place of Angrez Singh, who is now assistant secretary of the Dharam Prachar Committee.
The meeting was attended by Giani Balwant Singh Nandgarh of Takht Damdama Sahib, Giani Tarlochan Singh of Takht Kesgarh Sahib and two granthis 8212; Jaswinder Singh and Mall Singh.