AMRITSAR SAHIB, Punjab—Martyrdom day of Shaheed Bhai Sukhdev Singh Sukha and Bhai Harjinder Singh Jinda was observed at Sri Akal Takht Sahib like every year. However, this year noted the absence of Akal Takht Sahib’s appointed Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh who was not present for the first time since being appointed Jathedar.
Giani Gurbachan Singh and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib appointed Jathedar Gurmukh Singh reportedly kept distance from the function fearing of opposition from Sikh Sangat who is in deep anger over their move to pardon Sirsa based anti-Sikh cult head Gurmeet Ram Rahim. It is important to note that just few days ago, Giani Mal Singh, the appointed Jathedar of Sri Anandpur Sahib was attacked by a Sikh youth for his role in the pardon.
In the absence of Giani Gurbachan Singh, Granthi of Sri Darbar Sahib Giani Raghbir Singh honoured kin of both martyrs with siropas. SGPC did not allow any Sikh leader to address the congregation and only kirtan was sung by Ragi Singhs.
Bhai Daljit Singh Bittu, Bhai Kulbir Singh Barapind, Bhai Harpal Singh Cheema, Dal Khalsa spokesperson Bhai Kanwarpal Singh, AISSF president Bhai Karnail Singh Peer Mohammad, Sarbjit Singh Ghuman, SAD (A) leaders Jarnail Singh Sakhira and Harbir Singh Sandhu were among those who paid tribute to the martyrs.
