Role of Akal Takht and Its Relationship with SAD (GS Paper 1, History)
Why in News?
- Sukhbir Singh Badal, the President of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), was recently involved in an incident where he was shot at near the Golden Temple but remained unharmed.
- Badal, who was in a wheelchair due to a fractured foot, has been subjected to religious punishment by the Akal Takht for alleged misrule during the SAD's time in government (2007-2017).
- Other former Cabinet members are also performing acts of atonement, such as cleaning bathrooms and utensils, as ordered by the Akal Takht.
What is the Akal Takht?
Establishment of the Akal Takht
- The Akal Takht was established in 1606 by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, following the execution of his father, Guru Arjan Dev, by the Mughals.
- It is located across from the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.
- Guru Hargobind created this platform to combine spirituality and temporal power (Miri and Piri) in Sikhism.
- The two swords—one shorter, representing spirituality (Piri), and the other longer, representing temporal power (Miri)—symbolize the dual nature of Sikh leadership and governance.
- The Akal Takht stood as a symbol of defiance against Mughal authority, particularly Emperor Jahangir.
Historical Significance
- The Akal Takht became a symbol of Sikh resistance against oppressive rulers, especially the Mughals.
- It has been a place for gathering Sikhs during times of persecution, such as in the aftermath of Banda Singh Bahadur's execution (1716), and has historically been where critical decisions were made.
Functioning After Guru Gobind Singh’s Passing
- After the passing of Guru Gobind Singh in 1708, the Akal Takht continued to serve as a critical venue for Sikh decision-making.
- For instance, Sikhs gathered during festivals like Baisakhi and Diwali for Sarbat Khalsa meetings to make decisions on crucial issues, including supporting allies like Jaswant Rao Holkar in the early 19th century.
Appointment of the Jathedar of Akal Takht
- Initially, the Sarbat Khalsa appointed the Jathedar (head of the Akal Takht) during the annual Sikh gatherings.
- However, after British rule, the Darbar Sahib Committee influenced appointments.
- Today, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which was formed in 1920 and took control after the Sikh Gurdwaras Act of 1925, is responsible for managing the Akal Takht and appointing its Jathedar.
The Authority of the Akal Takht Jathedar
- The Akal Takht Jathedar is a highly influential figure, wielding supreme authority over both religious and temporal matters for Sikhs.
- To hold this position, one must be baptized, knowledgeable about Sikh history and scriptures, and free from moral flaws.
- The Jathedar has the power to summon Sikhs for trial and impose religious punishments (tankhah), which are intended to foster humility.
- Historically, no one has defied the Akal Takht's directives, even Maharaja Ranjit Singh was subjected to public flogging for a moral lapse as ordered by the Jathedar.
The Relationship between SGPC and SAD
The SGPC and SAD have historical connections, originating from the Gurdwara Reform Movement of 1920. While the SGPC manages the Sikh gurdwaras, the SAD was initially formed to assist in the reform process. Both institutions are considered central to the leadership of Sikh religious and political affairs.
- SGPC and SAD's Shared History: The SGPC was created to oversee Sikh shrines, while the SAD emerged to fight against the British and corrupt mahants (priests) running gurdwaras.
- The Three Pillars of Sikh Politics: The Akal Takht, SGPC, and SAD are often referred to as the "three poles" of Sikh politics, with the SGPC controlling appointments to the Akal Takht, thus giving the SAD significant political influence.
Influence of SAD on the SGPC
- Historically, the SAD has dominated the SGPC, especially during the 1960s and 1970s, providing them with immense political power.
- Even though the SGPC’s electoral structure (170 elected members out of 191) has allowed SAD to maintain control, some critics argue that SAD’s influence over SGPC elections since 2011 has led to a lack of independence in the SGPC’s functioning and decision-making.
Influence on the Akal Takht Jathedar's Decisions
- The SAD's control over the SGPC often extends to decisions made by the Akal Takht Jathedar, with accusations that some decisions are politically motivated or influenced by the SAD’s interests.
- This relationship between the SGPC, Akal Takht, and SAD has played a crucial role in shaping the political and religious landscape of Sikhism in Punjab.
Conclusion
- The Akal Takht plays a critical role in Sikh religious and temporal governance.
- Its influence extends to both religious and political spheres, especially through the SGPC and SAD.
- Despite historical efforts to maintain the independence of the Akal Takht, its decisions have been influenced by political dynamics within Punjab, especially in terms of appointments and punishments.
- The Akal Takht continues to be a powerful symbol of Sikh spirituality and temporal authority.