SGPC Leadership Shakeup: Dhami Resigns Over Giani Harpreet Singh’s Removal

Amritsar(The Uttam Hindu): Harjinder Singh Dhami resigned as president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on February 17, 2025, amid controversy over the dismissal of Giani Harpreet Singh from his position as Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib. Dhami’s resignation followed strong condemnation from Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, who criticized the SGPC’s decision as "highly condemnable" and "unfortunate" in a Facebook post on February 13.

In a statement to the media in Amritsar, Dhami expressed his unwavering commitment to the Akal Takht and took full responsibility for the SGPC’s actions, resigning on moral grounds. He also informed the Akal Takht Jathedar of his decision to step down from the seven-member committee overseeing the Shiromani Akali Dal’s new membership drive.

The controversy began when the SGPC, in a December 10, 2024 executive meeting, dismissed Giani Harpreet Singh as Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Bathinda. The dismissal followed a report by a three-member committee that investigated allegations involving a nearly two-decade-old domestic dispute.

Dhami’s resignation adds to the ongoing tensions within Sikh religious and political leadership, as the SGPC faces growing criticism for its handling of key decisions and leadership disputes, particularly regarding the autonomy of the Takhts.