Amritsar (Punjab): The Five Singh Sahibaan, led by the Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, have withdrawn previous sanctions and formally pardoned three key figures—Akali leader Virsa Singh Valtoha, former Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh, and Guru Nanak Dev University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Karamjit Singh.
The decision came after the Panj Singh Sahibaan reviewed earlier actions taken against Virsa Singh Valtoha over his remarks against Sikh clergy and controversies involving former Jathedars. Valtoha appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib, admitted his errors, and sought forgiveness.
Following his apology, the clergy revoked the 10-year ban issued under Resolution No. 2024 and instructed him to refrain from making statements targeting religious authorities. He was also reminded to uphold the dignity and responsibility expected from someone associated with the legacy of Sant Jarnail Singh Ji Khalsa Bhindranwale.
Valtoha was assigned religious service (Tankhah), which includes cleaning utensils and sweeping Langar Hall floors at Sri Harmandir Sahib, Tarn Taran Sahib, Sri Damdama Sahib, and Sri Anandpur Sahib for several days. He must also recite Japji Sahib, Chopai Sahib, and Ramkali Ki Vaar for 11 days, and offer Karah Prasad along with a donation of ₹1100 at Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He accepted all conditions.
The Five Singh Sahibaan also pardoned former Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh, who had been under sanction due to the 2015 pardon granted to Dera Sacha Sauda head Gurmeet Ram Rahim. His apology was acknowledged, and all previous restrictions were lifted.
Guru Nanak Dev University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Karamjit Singh, who faced criticism for comments on Sikh identity during an event in South India, personally presented his apology before Akal Takht. His assigned religious service includes two days of utensil cleaning and community service at Sri Harmandir Sahib, recitation of Japji Sahib, Asa Ki Vaar, Tav Prasad Savaiye, and other Nitnem compositions, reading Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha’s Hum Hindu Nahin, and distributing 500 copies among the sangat. He will also provide ₹1100 worth of Karah Prasad and deposit ₹1100 in Guru Ki Golak.
All three individuals bowed before the Takht, and the acceptance of their apologies marks a significant moment of reconciliation within the Sikh community.
