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Akal Takht Lifts Ban on Sikh Preacher Dhadrianwale Amid Rising Institutional Tensions

The five-year ban was revoked following Dhadrianwale’s formal apology, while a dispute over Akal Takht's authority escalates with Takht Patna Sahib's defiance.

Akal takht acting jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj.
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The Akal Takht on Wednesday pardoned prominent Sikh preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale for his controversial remarks on Sikh principles and traditions. The Sikh clergy also lifted the ban on his religious discourses and participation in public congregations, nearly five years after directing a community-wide boycott.

Overview

  • Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale was officially pardoned by the Akal Takht after offering a formal apology and symbolic karah parshad, ending a five-year ban on his religious activities.
  • The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Patiala recommended canceling an FIR against Dhadrianwale, citing lack of evidence in a rape-murder case filed in December 2024.
  • Takht Patna Sahib's Panj Pyare declared Akal Takht’s acting jathedar and another Takht leader guilty of religious misconduct, rejecting Akal Takht’s supremacy.
  • Three Punjab-based Takhts passed resolutions affirming Akal Takht's supreme authority, warning of strict action if Takht Patna Sahib does not revoke its decree.
  • The SGPC has called for dialogue to resolve the jurisdictional dispute, emphasizing the need for unity within Sikh institutions to preserve community cohesion.