Controversy Erupts Over Gurdwara Land Dealings: Akali Dal Calls for Transparency

Akali Dal President Giani Harpreet Singh accuses the SGPC of misconduct concerning Gurdwara land sales. He demands clarity on the sale of land belonging to Gurdwara Amb Sahib and Gurdwara Bhatta Sahib. Singh calls for an investigation, urging transparency and accountability from religious and political bodies.

In a striking revelation, Akali Dal (Punar Surjit) President Giani Harpreet Singh levelled serious allegations against the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) concerning the sale of Gurdwara lands. Singh demanded that the 'truth be revealed' about the transactions related to the land belonging to Gurdwara Amb Sahib and Gurdwara Bhatta Sahib.

Singh disclosed that land, originally donated by a benevolent Bibi for Gurdwara Bhatta Sahib in 2002, was sold for a surprisingly low price despite its prime location. He questioned the necessity of such a sale and challenged the logic behind the undervalued transaction. According to the SGPC Act, there should have been a land exchange, yet there is no clarity on the ₹39.43 crore received from GMADA in exchange for Gurdwara Amb Sahib's land, specifically how these funds have been utilized or whether new property has been acquired.

Alleging political interference, Singh accused Sukhbir Singh Badal of promoting arbitrary practices within the SGPC. He stressed the need for a transparent probe into the sale and purchase of Gurdwara properties since 1999. Anticipating future developments, he announced a Panthak conference in Anandpur Sahib on March 3 to discuss the Panth's vision. Earlier, in a meeting with party workers, Singh expressed concerns about officials with constitutional responsibilities participating in political rallies, emphasizing that such involvement is inappropriate.

(With inputs from agencies.)