17 october 2024 : A day after directives from the Akal Takht, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) rejected the resignation of Takht Damdama Sahib Jathedar, Giani Harpreet Singh. Akal Takht Jathedar, Giani Raghbir Singh, had urged the SGPC not to accept the resignation, warning that all Takht Jathedars, including himself, would be compelled to step down if it was accepted.
SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami confirmed that the resignation, which had been received via mobile, was rejected on Thursday. Dhami also apologized on behalf of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for any derogatory remarks made against the Takht Jathedars by its members.
Giani Harpreet Singh had resigned, citing harassment from SAD’s social media wing, including threats against his family and attacks on his caste, allegedly orchestrated by Akali leader Virsa Singh Valtoha. Valtoha had already resigned from the SAD before the Akal Takht ordered his expulsion for 10 years, barring him from party activities.
SAD leader Cheema emphasized that any further disrespect towards the Jathedars, either in person or on social media, would not be tolerated, and he requested Valtoha to stop making derogatory comments. Cheema assured Giani Harpreet Singh of action if he could identify the SAD members responsible for the offensive messages. He reaffirmed SAD’s respect for the Jathedars, offering a formal apology on behalf of the party if any members had insulted them.
Valtoha had been accused of defaming the Jathedars on social media under the influence of the BJP-led Central government and the RSS. In his defense, Valtoha accused Giani Harpreet Singh of connections with BJP leaders, sharing his statement publicly on social media.