The Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikhs, has ordered former Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal and his companions to clean bathrooms and wash utensils in the langar house as punishment for religious misconduct. The development comes after Badal had requested a meeting of the Sikh clergy to pronounce 'tankhah' (religious punishment) to him for the "mistakes" committed by his party and government from 2007 to 2017. The resignations of leaders who rebelled against Shiromani Akali Dal have also been advised to be accepted, while Badal will have to wear a plaque declaring him a 'tankhaiya' while sitting outside Sri Darbar Sahib.
Sukhbir Singh Badal Ordered to Clean Bathrooms and Wash Utensils at Akal Takht for Religious Misconduct
Background
Sukhbir Singh Badal, a prominent Sikh leader and former Chief Minister of Punjab, has been ordered by the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikhs, to perform menial tasks as punishment for religious misconduct. This unprecedented punishment stems from accusations that Badal and his Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) party committed various offenses during their 10-year rule in Punjab.
Allegations and Punishment
The Akal Takht Jathedar (priest), Giani Harpreet Singh, imposed the following punishments on Badal:
Badal's Request and Controversy
Badal had earlier requested a meeting with the Sikh clergy to pronounce "tankhah" (religious punishment) for "mistakes" committed by his party and government. However, the severity of the punishment imposed by the Akal Takht has sparked controversy, with some criticizing it as excessive.
Significance
The Akal Takht's decision carries significant weight within the Sikh community and is seen as a strong rebuke to Badal and SAD. It highlights the importance of religious authority in Sikh affairs and sends a message that religious misconduct will not be tolerated.
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