New Delhi: Several Panthic organisations, not affiliated with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), have united to oppose the call for excommunicating Narain Singh Chaura, who tried to assassinate SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal on December 4 at the Golden Temple.
The Panthic groups convened in a meeting on Wednesday to address issues related to Sikh sentiments, the political situation in Punjab, and the protection of religious places. They are expected to announce their next steps on Thursday, Times of India reported.
Panthic leaders seek top honour for Chaura
Sources said that Panthic leaders have requested the acting Jathedar of Akal Takht, Bhai Dhian Singh Mand, to spearhead the movement and propose granting Chaura the “Panth Rattan” title, reflecting the broader feelings of the Sikh community.
Bhai Jarnail Singh Sakhira, one of the meeting’s attendees, said that Chaura’s actions echoed the deep dissatisfaction and frustration felt by the people of Punjab, particularly Sikhs, towards SAD. “Many once believed that SAD represented their interests, but over time, it became more concerned with preserving the future of a select few, fostering nepotism and ignoring Panthic sentiments. Even SAD leaders have acknowledged their mistakes and wrongdoings during their time in power and the public is upset with the leniency shown to those responsible,” Sakhira added.
Chaura met SGPC President before attempted assassination
Meanwhile, Chaura’s son, Baljinder Singh Bajwa, said that his father had met with Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami on the day of the attempted assassination. Chaura’s lawyer, JS Randhawa, said that the police had filed a petition accusing SGPC of failing to cooperate and not providing CCTV footage. He said that the court had remanded Chaura to police custody until December 14. Attempts to contact Dhami for comment were unsuccessful.
