Protesters Demand Freeing SGPC, Akal Takht From ‘Badals’ Clutches’

Sikh radicals protesting the desecration of the holy book demand new elections of Akal Takht and SGPC

Protests after the alleged desecration of the Sikhs’ holy book. (Courtesy: ANI screengrab)

Sikh radicals announced on Sunday that protests against the desecration of the sacred book, Guru Granth Sahib, will be intensified, reports the Hindustan Times.

Road blockades were lifted by protesters after about two weeks. However, several thousands gathered at Bargari village in Faridkot for the ceremony of the two men who died in police firing during the protest.

The protesters also announced their nine-point resolution, which was read out by radical preacher, Baljeet Singh Daduwal. According to the HT report, it was passed by other hardliners including Ranjit Singh Dhandrian Wala, Panthpreet Singh Khalsa, Amrik Singh Ajnala, Harjinder Singh Majhi, Daler Singh Keheri and Simranjit Singh Mann of SAD (Amritsar).

The preachers announced that a Sarbat Khalsa, a people’s congregation, will meet on November 10 and discuss the issues further. They also alleged that the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takhtwere should be “freed from clutches of the ruling Badals”.

<p>Three of the Takhts (seats of power) of SGPC are dominated by wrong people and one family has command over the golak (treasury). All need to be freed. </p>

<p>Amrik Singh Ajnala, Head of Damdami Taksal</p>

They also demanded immediate elections for the SGPC and the Akal Takht, claiming both institutions cannot be trusted.