Sri Anandpur Sahib: Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Saturday paid a visit to Gurdwara Shishganj Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib to perform ‘Jode Di Sewa’ (shoe service), a part of his religious penance imposed on him by Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
The decision came after Bains appeared before the highest temporal seat of Sikhism on July 6, seeking to clarify his role in a recent controversy over an official event in Srinagar commemorating the martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The programme, organised by the Punjab Government, faced backlash when videos emerged showing Bhangra performances and songs being played during the solemn occasion. Many Sikh organisations deemed the acts disrespectful.
During his appearance before the five Singh Sahibans, Harjot Singh Bains admitted his lapse in judgment, acknowledging that he neither stopped nor objected to the inappropriate proceedings. “I express my heartfelt apology to the Sikh community for the distress caused,” he said.
After reviewing the matter, the Akal Takht issued religious penalties (Tankhah) for Harjot Singh Bains and others involved. The directives stressed that while the government can organise educational and awareness events on Sikh Gurus, such programmes must preserve the sanctity of the Gurus’ legacy. To this end, future events are to be held in consultation with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
As part of his penance, Bains has been instructed to:
Travel on foot to the historic palace of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and oversee repairs to the approach road.
- Walk 100 metres from Gurdwara Kotha Sahib and ensure road improvement work.
- Visit Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib in Delhi and make a deg (community kitchen offering) worth Rs 1,100.
- Undertake voluntary service at a couple’s house in Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Others held accountable include Ranjit Singh from Jammu, along with Gopal Singh and Som Nath Singh. Ranjit Singh has been tasked with sweeping the gurdwara premises for 11 days, reciting daily Nitnem prayers during that period, and contributing Rs 1,100 each towards the deg and the Guru’s Golak (donation box).
The Akal Takht’s decision is being seen as a reaffirmation of the importance of cultural sensitivity and religious discipline, especially for public representatives participating in sacred commemorations.
