Chandigarh, Aug 6: Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains appeared before the Sikh community’s highest temporal authority, Sri Akal Takht Sahib, in Amritsar on Wednesday, where he admitted his mistake in organizing a dance and music event on July 24 in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
The event, hosted by the Punjab Language Department, sparked controversy for its perceived disrespect to Sikh traditions.
Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj pronounced a religious punishment for Minister Bains, directing him to undertake a series of atonement tasks. Bains was instructed to walk from the Golden Temple to Guruke Mahal in Amritsar, performing cleaning duties along the route.
He will then proceed to Gurudwara Kotha Sahib, dismounting 100 meters prior and cleaning the path to the gurudwara. Similarly, at Gurdwara Patshahi Baba Bakala Sahib, he must stop 100 meters before the site and repair the roads leading to it.
Additionally, Bains has been ordered to visit Gurdwara Sheeshganj Sahib in Delhi and Gurdwara Sheeshganj Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, where he will perform seva (service) in the shoe-keeping areas for two days at each location and offer a deg (prasad) worth Rs 1,100 while seeking forgiveness through ardas. Accepting the verdict, Bains stated, “I accept the punishment.”
The controversial event featured a performance by Punjabi singer Bir Singh. On August 1, the Akal Takht had summoned Bains and Punjab language department director Jaswant Singh Zafar to appear in person. The meeting was adjourned that day, and both were asked to appear on August 6. Zafar, currently abroad, sought an extension via letter and will appear on August 13.
Jathedar Gadgaj also sentenced two others, including Ranjit Singh, for their involvement. They were directed to perform seva at their nearest gurdwara, including cleaning shoes and utensils, for 11 days.
Additionally, they must recite Sri Japji Sahib and Jap Sahib five times each daily for 11 days. After completing the service, they are required to offer a deg of Rs 1,100 and donate Rs 1,100 to the donation box at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, followed by paying obeisance at the site. Ranjit Singh accepted the punishment, stating, “I accept the verdict.”
