Amritsar, October 20: For the first time since his controversial appointment, Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj is expected to address the Sikh community on Bandi Chhor Diwas from the Takht’s rostrum on October 21.
The expected address comes months after Gargaj skipped his traditional speech on June 6 — the Operation Bluestar anniversary — following resistance from Nihang groups and other Sikh organisations that refused to recognise his appointment.
Gargaj was appointed in March after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)-controlled SGPC removed the then heads of Akal Takht and Takht Damdama Sahib, sparking a row within the Panth. Opponents claimed his selection violated the Sikh code of conduct and lacked wider Panthic consensus.
Sources said senior SAD functionaries have since reached out to Nihang leaders, urging them to ceremonially tie a “dastar” on Gargaj, signalling their acceptance. “If Nihang bodies allow him to deliver the Diwali-eve address, it will be seen as a significant reconciliation step,” a source said.
Meanwhile, preparations are in full swing at the Golden Temple, where footfall has surged ahead of the festival. Temple officials estimate that around three lakh devotees will visit the shrine on Sunday. “Extra SGPC task force members will be on duty for smooth management,” said general manager Bhagwant Singh Dhangera.
