Amritsar, February 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Thursday announced the immediate “retirement” of Giani Raghbir Singh from the post of Head Granthi of Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, following an ongoing controversy over allegations he levelled against the Sikh body’s leadership.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the SGPC Executive Committee held in Amritsar. Addressing a press conference after the meeting, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami stated that the committee deliberated on the issue for nearly an hour before reaching its conclusion.
According to Dhami, Giani Raghbir Singh failed to respond to a 72-hour notice issued to him, asking him to provide documentary evidence to substantiate his public allegations against the SGPC.
Background: Allegations and 72-Hour Ultimatum
The controversy began after Giani Raghbir Singh, during a press interaction in Jalandhar on February 18, 2026, raised allegations concerning alleged irregularities within the SGPC’s functioning. His remarks reportedly included references to administrative issues and concerns linked to missing religious manuscripts, as well as criticism of the SGPC leadership, including its president.
In response, the SGPC issued a 72-hour ultimatum on February 19, asking him to submit written proof supporting his claims. The committee maintained that such public allegations without substantiation harmed the image of the institution.
Subsequently, Giani Raghbir Singh released a video message serving what he described as a counter 72-hour ultimatum to the SGPC. In his statement, he asserted that he had merely performed his religious duty by speaking what he believed to be the truth. He said he possessed documentary evidence related to the issues he raised and maintained that his actions were aimed at safeguarding transparency and sanctity within Sikh institutions.
He also indicated that he learned about the SGPC notice through social media while he was outside Punjab and questioned the fairness of issuing notices to those raising concerns.
Previous Removal as Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht
Giani Raghbir Singh had earlier served as Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht. He was holding that position when SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal and certain Akali leaders were declared guilty of religious misconduct and awarded punishment in accordance with panthic traditions.
He was removed from the acting Jathedar position in December 2025 but continued to serve as Head Granthi of Sri Darbar Sahib until the latest action by the SGPC.
His removal from both key religious positions within a span of months has drawn considerable attention within Sikh religious and political circles.
SGPC’s Position
SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami stated that the committee viewed the failure to respond to the official notice as a violation of institutional norms and discipline. He added that the committee found the allegations unsubstantiated and harmful to the reputation of the SGPC.
The SGPC maintains that it acted in accordance with its rules and administrative framework.
Wider Implications
The development has intensified debate within Sikh institutions, especially at a time when the SGPC is already under scrutiny in connection with other sensitive matters. Supporters of Giani Raghbir Singh view his statements as an attempt to uphold accountability, while SGPC leadership insists that due process and institutional integrity must be maintained.
Given the religious importance of Sri Darbar Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, and the significance of the Head Granthi’s role, the decision is being closely watched across Punjab and within the global Sikh community.
Further reactions from religious scholars, Sikh organisations, and political leaders are expected in the coming days.
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