National News: Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal has once again been declared 'Tankhaiya'—a 'religiously convicted individual in violation of Sikh codes of conduct—by the Panch Pyare of Takht Sri Harmandir Ji, Patna Sahib. The decision came after a special meeting convened by the Panch Pyare, where Badal was found guilty of violating Sikh religious norms and was formally punished as per established traditions.
Controversial 21 May Order Triggered the Action
The roots of the controversy trace back to May 21, 2025, when a controversial directive was issued by Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj and Jathedar Tek Singh. According to the Panch Pyare, this directive not only bypassed the Takht’s established constitutional framework but also bore unmistakable signs of political motivation. The directive allegedly undermined the sanctity and authority of Takht Sahib.
Allegations of Interference in Committee Jurisdiction
In their formal statement, the Panch Pyare accused Sukhbir Badal of interfering with the powers and decision-making authority of the Takht's management committee. They stated that unconstitutional and unprincipled orders were issued to override the official resolutions passed during committee meetings held on May 9 and 10, 2023.
Multiple Opportunities Ignored
The order also detailed the due process followed before reaching the final decision. Badal was reportedly given three separate opportunities to present his side:
- First, on May 21,
- Then again on June 1, with 10-day response windows each,
- Followed by a final 20-day extension on June 15, issued via SGPC President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami.
Despite these chances, Badal neither appeared before the religious body nor provided any written clarification. His continued absence, the Panch Pyare said, was tantamount to deliberate contempt and served as evidence of his direct involvement in the events under scrutiny.
Branded as 'Instigator and Conspirator'
The Takht's order went further, terming Sukhbir Badal the “instigator and conspirator” behind the constitutional violation. The Panch Pyare stated that his actions not only defied Sikh principles but also offended the core tenets of Gurmat Siddhant, which is central to Sikh doctrine and spiritual tradition.
Religious Standing at Risk Amid Political Fallout
The declaration of Badal as Tankhaiya comes as a significant blow to his religious standing, which may also spill over into the political arena. As the head of the Shiromani Akali Dal—a party with deep roots in Sikh religious and cultural identity—such a verdict can intensify internal dissent and raise questions about his moral authority within the community.
SGPC and Badal Camp Yet to Respond
So far, neither the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) nor any official spokesperson from the Sukhbir Badal camp has issued a formal response to the decision. However, the matter is gaining momentum across religious and political circles, potentially setting the stage for broader discourse around religious governance and political interference.
