Harjot Bains says, "I apologize for what happened in Srinagar, and I will appear before Sri Akal Takht Sahib"

Sri Akal Takht Sahib Summons Harjot Bains Over Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Martyrdom Event Latest News Today: The acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, has taken strong exception to a controversial cultural program organized by the Punjab government in Srinagar during the commemoration of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

In response to widespread outrage within the Sikh community, the Jathedar has officially summoned Punjab Cabinet Minister S. Harjot Singh and Director of the Language Department S. Jaswant Singh to appear before the Panj Singh Sahibs on August 1, 2025, at Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

The move follows multiple complaints from Sikh organizations and community members who condemned the inclusion of entertainment performances, including song and dance, at the government-hosted event meant to honor the sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru.

He further criticized both the Cabinet Minister and the Language Department Director for maintaining silence on the matter even weeks after the event. “Those holding constitutional positions must uphold the values of responsibility and sensitivity. Their continued silence only deepens the community’s pain and raises serious questions,” he added.

Meanwhile, Harjot Singh Bains has agreed to the summons and said that he will appear before the Sikh body. He also apologized for what happened at Srinagar. 

Earlier, The Jathedar also confirmed that singer Bir Singh, who performed at the Srinagar event, has already appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib and sought forgiveness for unintentionally hurting Sikh sentiments. His apology and conduct will also be reviewed during the upcoming meeting.

S. Bagicha Singh, in-charge of the Akal Takht Secretariat, stated that this incident has sparked important debate over the sanctity and decorum of religious commemorations organized by the state. The August 1 meeting is expected to set a precedent regarding how such events should be handled moving forward.

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