Prof Manjit Singh is the Acting Jathedar of Akal Takhat Some of his recent moves have become subject of controversy: He is being criticized for maintaining contact with anti-Panthic elements such a Buta Singh and Rachhpal Singh who were summoned to Takhar and let off with a minor punishment even as their offences Against the Sikh community were rave

The W.S.N 100 in these columns had Called into question Prof. Manjit Singhs wisdom in that respect It should be remembered that Akal Takhat is a unique institution which Was set up by the Gurus themselves. Decisions taken at this hallowed place have a special significance for Sikhs. Almost all Sikh struggles for freedom had been initiated at Akal Takhat. Enemies of Sikh religion and politics understand the key importance of Akal Takhat. They have always been anxious to keep this holy place out of bounds for Sikhs. At times the rulers in Delhi have tried to impose their own nominee as Jathedar of Akal Takhat and have tried to mislead the community religiously and politically. It has been the Indian government’s constant endeavor for more than a decade not to let any Jathedar function who is persona non-grata with Delhi. Either our man will head this institution or none will be allowed to operate seems to be Indias Standing order. That is why Baba Gurbachan Singh Manochahal was not allowed entry into the Golden Temple Complex as long as he remained alive. Bhai Gurdev Singh Kaonke functioned briefly but was subsequently tortured to death. Bhai Ranjit Singh has been under detention for about a dozen years. Many other Jathedars have been functioning temporarily. India did not interfere as long as these Jathedars cooperated but were jailed as and when such cooperation was withheld. One of the Jathedars had to go to jail several times. The present incumbent appears to have refrained from coming in conflict with the Indian government. Prof. Manjit Singh keeps silent even on the Sikh human rights issue Bhai Kanwar Singh now in detention had some time ago alleged than he had written several letters to Prof Manjit Singh regarding his maltreatment at the hands of the police but the gated a chadmaini maintained silence.

 Bhaji Kanwar Singhs wife Jathedar from jail to bring to his notice Certain very grave instances of human rights violations at the hands of the police. The Jathedar denied having received these letters. The Jathedar may not indeed have received any such letter because the Indian authorizes censor all correspondence of Sikhs. But the content of those letters was carried by a section of the Press. Prof. Manjit Singh did not react even to such information and chose to remain silent such silence is indeed very shocking. The Jathedar of Akal Takhat is supposed to be the conscience keeper of the community. Any grievance by any Sikh more so the distress calls from detained Sikh women ~ ought to be the concern of the Takhat Jathedar In the context of Prof Manjit Singhs Johal silence on these vital issues and the manner of his treatment of persons like Buta Singh and Rachhpal Singh makes one suspect that he is trying to remain persona grata with Delhi. That is why the Sikh Students Federation (Mehta-Chawla) has criticized Prof Manjit Singh in very strong terms. Every Sikh finds himself in a predicament whether to support or oppose the federations demand for his removal. While it is necessary to avoid public display of animosity towards the Jathedar something will have to be done to remedy the situation sooner or later.

The Akal Takhat Jathedar has to be a man of conscience and a dedicated Sikh. He cannot afford to be part is an among various factions. The S.GP.C. Alone should not have the exclusive say in selecting Jathedar of Akal Takhat. Other Sikh institutions views should receive adequate weightage. That is now the glory of this great institution can be maintained.

Article extracted from this publication >> June 10, 1994