Punjab Newsline, Amritsar
SGPC Restructures Management; Former Jathedar Raghubir Singh Had Earlier Faced Questions Over His Functioning
A significant administrative change has been made in the management of Sri Darbar Sahib. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has confirmed that the Head Granthi of Darbar Sahib, Giani Raghubir Singh, has proceeded on long leave. In his absence, Giani Amarjit Singh has been appointed as the new Head Granthi. The position of Head Granthi is considered one of the most prestigious and responsible religious posts at Darbar Sahib, making this decision a major topic of discussion within the Sikh community.
This change comes at a time when dissatisfaction regarding Giani Raghubir Singh’s leadership had been growing within the SGPC. In March 2025, the SGPC had removed him from the position of Jathedar of the Akal Takht and appointed Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj as the acting Jathedar. The SGPC stated that the decision was taken in accordance with Panthic maryada (religious code) and organizational discipline.
However, the decision to remove him as Jathedar drew criticism from several Sikh groups and Panthic organizations. Some groups claimed the move went against the sentiments of the Sikh Sangat and alleged it was influenced by political pressure. The issue sparked widespread debate across media platforms, leading to tension between the SGPC and various Panthic factions.
SGPC senior vice-president Raghujit Singh had stated at the time that the Panth is currently facing serious challenges and that Sikh identity is under pressure both in India and abroad. He added that hostile forces are attempting to weaken Sikh institutions, and at such a sensitive time, the role of the Jathedar becomes extremely crucial. According to him, Giani Raghubir Singh failed to fulfill these responsibilities effectively.
The SGPC had further remarked that Giani Raghubir Singh changed his statements on several occasions, raising questions about his leadership. His approach, according to the committee, did not uphold the dignity associated with the prestigious seat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. The committee also expressed dissatisfaction over his silence and inaction on several serious issues impacting the Panth, which significantly influenced the decision to remove him.
His long leave from the role of Head Granthi and the appointment of Giani Amarjit Singh are being seen as the next step in SGPC’s administrative restructuring. With this new appointment, the SGPC has indicated its intention to maintain discipline and stability in the religious services and maryada of Darbar Sahib. The Sikh Sangat now has high expectations from Giani Amarjit Singh, and all eyes will be on his functioning in the coming days.