Jathedars of two Takhts convene meeting; SAD's working chief Bhunder denies talks on Sukhbir Singh Badal's resignation
Giani Harpreet Singh terms gathering a routine interaction; says it was held as a courtesy visit with SGPC president Advocate Dhami and Balwinder Singh Bhunder
PTC Web Desk: An emergency meeting was called by Giani Raghbir Singh, the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, at his residence in Amritsar on Wednesday, which was attended by prominent figures, including Giani Harpreet Singh, Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, SGPC president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, and Shiromani Akali Dal's working president Balwinder Singh Bhunder.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Giani Harpreet Singh termed the gathering a routine interaction, stating that it was held as a courtesy visit with SGPC president Advocate Dhami and Balwinder Singh Bhunder. He expressed disapproval of Damdai Taksal head Harnam Singh Dhumma's support for the BJP in Maharashtra, stating that unconditional support is inappropriate unless it aligns with resolving key issues.
Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami clarified that the meeting had no connection to any discussions about sukhbir Singh Badal's resignations or internal party matters. He explained that his visit was primarily to attend the antim ardas for Balwant Singh Rajoana's brother and that his presence at Giani Raghbir Singh's residence was merely for a routine interaction. On being questioned about Rajoana's appeal for Sikh unity, Advocate Dhami called it a separate issue, unrelated to the meeting.
Balwinder Singh Bhunder said there was no pre-defined agenda for the meeting. He added that Akhand Path Sahib ceremonies were conducted, following which he paid respects to Jathedar Sahib. Addressing questions about resignations within the Akali Dal, Bhunder stated that the party remained resilient despite challenges, attributing its strength to sacrifices and steadfast leadership over time.
He dismissed the notion of a leadership vacuum, emphasizing that any changes in the party's structure, including leadership elections, would follow established procedures. Bhunder also reiterated ongoing efforts for the release of Balwant Singh Rajoana, urging the Central Government to expedite the process.
The meeting concluded with leaders reiterating their commitment to preserving Sikh unity and addressing community concerns through mutual dialogue.