AMRITSAR: In a significant development, the Five Sikh High Priests have summoned Sant Singh, President of the Gurdwara Baba Budha Ji Committee in Hamilton, Canada, to appear before the Akal Takht, Sikhism's highest temporal seat. Simultaneously, they have barred him from continuing his duties as President pending further inquiry.
The action follows a formal complaint alleging that the Gurdwara Committee has been harassing Bibi Parminderpal Kaur, widow of Sikh martyr Dr. Gurpreet Singh, along with her family. The complaint triggered a high-level meeting of the Five Sikh Jathedars at the Akal Takht, presided over by Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh.
Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh, addressing the media after the meeting, stated that Sant Singh has been directed to present his version of events in person before the Akal Takht. In addition, two key committee office-bearers — Treasurer Kulwinder Singh Multani and Secretary Jas Sohal — have been asked to submit their responses in writing. Their services remain suspended until their clarifications are reviewed.
The Akal Takht has also issued a stern directive to the Hamilton Gurdwara Committee to immediately ensure the safety, accommodation, and rightful sewa (service duties) and honorarium for Bibi Parminderpal Kaur at the Gurdwara premises.
"The Sikh community in Ontario must see to it that these orders are implemented without delay, " said Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh. "Families of Sikh martyrs deserve dignity, support, and unwavering care from the Panth (Sikh community)."
This case has sparked serious concern among global Sikh circles about the management of overseas Gurdwaras and the treatment of individuals linked to the community's history and sacrifices. The Akal Takht's firm intervention underscores the seriousness of the matter and its resolve to protect the honor of Sikh martyrs and their families.
The Akal Takht’s decision was welcomed by several Sikh organizations across Canada and Punjab.
The Ontario Gurdwara Committee, in a public statement, expressed strong support for the Akal Takht’s directive. “It is our collective duty to uphold the dignity of martyr families. We stand by Bibi Parminderpal Kaur and urge the Hamilton Gurdwara Committee to respect the orders from Sri Akal Takht Sahib, ” the committee noted.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also issued a statement backing the move. “The Sikh community worldwide must be vigilant in ensuring Gurdwara managements operate in line with Panthic values. Any harassment of martyr families is intolerable, ” said SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami.
Meanwhile, the World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada urged for transparent inquiry and resolution. “The community must come together to ensure such incidents are handled with utmost seriousness and sensitivity, ” said WSO spokesperson Balpreet Singh.
The incident has triggered introspection within the diaspora about accountability and the ethical responsibilities of Gurdwara committees abroad. More responses from Sikh advocacy groups are expected in the coming days.