Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh Resigns, Cites Threats From Virsa Singh Valtoha

In a dramatic development within Punjab’s Sikh religious leadership, Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Giani Harpreet Singh, has resigned from his post, citing personal threats and harassment from former Shiromani Akali Dal leader Virsa Singh Valtoha.

In his resignation letter to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Giani Harpreet Singh appealed for his resignation to be accepted, saying that the situation had become “untenable and deeply distressing.” He alleged that Valtoha had crossed all limits of decency, breaching his personal privacy and issuing direct threats.

“Valtoha has not only threatened me but has been openly supported by the social media team of the Shiromani Akali Dal,” Giani Harpreet Singh said emotionally, expressing disappointment over the party’s silence on the matter.

Valtoha, who was expelled from the Akali Dal following a directive from Sri Akal Takht Sahib, had earlier accused Giani Harpreet Singh of having links with the RSS and BJP — a charge the Jathedar has firmly denied.

Giani Harpreet Singh previously served as the acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and has been associated with the SGPC since 1997, beginning his service as a preacher (pracharak). His resignation has stirred intense debate within Sikh circles, with many viewing it as a reflection of growing political interference in religious institutions.

Senior SGPC members are reportedly holding discussions to persuade the Jathedar to reconsider his decision, amid mounting concern over division and mistrust among Sikh leadership.