Sikhism’s highest temporal seat, the Akal Takht, on Wednesday convened a meeting to discuss the political and religious future of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president and Punjab’s former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal. The gathering, which included several prominent Sikh scholars and intellectuals, was organized by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh at the Sri Akal Takht Secretariat with the meeting focusing on Sukhbir’s being declared ‘tankhaiya’ — one who has violated Sikh religious codes — a status conferred on August 30 due to actions taken during his leadership from 2007 to 2017.

Sukhbir’s status as ‘tankhaiya’ stemmed from his alleged role in decisions that the Akal Takht believed harmed the image and interests of the Sikh panth (community). His actions during his tenure as SAD president and Deputy Chief Minister have been criticized for purportedly causing a rift within the Sikh community and leading to SAD’s political decline. This designation marked a significant setback for Sukhbir, as it impacted both his religious standing and his leadership within the SAD, challenging his influence among Sikh voters and supporters.

While the Akal Takht has withheld specifics, a detailed letter from SAD dissidents highlighted controversial decisions that contributed to Sukhbir’s tankhaiya status. Chief among these is his alleged involvement in securing an attempted pardon for Dera Sacha Sauda leader Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who faced serious backlash within the Sikh community for imitating the tenth Sikh Guru in 2007. The attempt to seek forgiveness for Ram Rahim, seen as a blasphemous act by many, reportedly left lasting damage on the SAD’s relationship with Sikh voters, especially in rural Punjab.

Additionally, detractors accuse Sukhbir of insufficient action following the 2015 sacrilege incidents in Bargari, where sacred texts were desecrated — a pivotal issue in Punjab politics. As the Home Minister at the time, critics claimed Sukhbir’s inaction deepened mistrust among Sikhs, who felt the sacrilege cases were inadequately investigated. These incidents, critics argued, not only undermined Sikh faith but also damaged the SAD’s standing as a panthic (Sikh-centered) political party.

During the meeting, the Sikh scholars and intellectuals presented their views on Sukhbir’s case, emphasizing the importance of holding leaders accountable to Sikh values, particularly those holding high office within the panth.

Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, along with Jathedars from Takht Sri Damdama Sahib and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, stressed that discussions with Sikh scholars was aimed at gathering collective insights before making any formal decisions. The meeting represented a broader consultation process within Sikh leadership aimed at ensuring community sentiments are reflected in the Akal Takht’s ultimate decision.

Akal Takht to hold further consultations to decide on punishment

The Akal Takht intended to continue consultations with other Sikh organizations, Gurdwara committees, and panthic entities before announcing Sukhbir’s fate. The next phase of deliberation will involve the five ‘Singh Sahibans’ (the heads of Sikh Takhts) who may convene a conclusive meeting to decide on Sukhbir’s punishment. Soon, the Jathedars (head priests) of all five Sikh Takhts are expected to convene, and Sukhbir Badal may be summoned to discuss further actions.

Understanding “Tankhaiya”

In Sikhism, “Tankhaiya” status is given to those who have violated religious principles. This decision is made by Akal Takht, Sikhs’ highest temporal seat. Once declared ‘tankhaiya’, individuals can request forgiveness in front of the Sikh community and have their actions reviewed in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib, with punishments decided accordingly.

 Receiving a ‘tankhaiya’ punishment can result in social exclusion, with Sikhs refraining from socializing, conducting marital arrangements, or participating in events at the individual’s home. Recently, SAD decided against contesting bypolls to four assembly segments in Punjab after Akal Takht clarified that Sukhbir Badal cannot campaign for his party.

Possible Punishments Under Sikh Religious Code for “Tankhaiya”

According to Akal Takht guidelines, those declared “tankhaiya” in the Sikh community often receive duties in Gurdwaras as a form of penitence. Such tasks may include cleaning shoes, washing utensils, or sweeping floors.