Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs
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Recent Context
The Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority of Sikhs, recently imposed religious sanctions on Punjab’s former Deputy Chief Minister and President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). The penalties were linked to alleged governance failures during the SAD’s tenure from 2007 to 2017.
Establishment and Symbolism
- Foundation: The Akal Takht was established in 1606 by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, after his father, Guru Arjan Dev, was executed by Mughal authorities.
- Purpose: Guru Hargobind used the Akal Takht as a platform for governance, issuing edicts (Hukamnamas) urging Sikhs to contribute resources like horses and weapons for the community.
- Symbolism: The dual swords representing miri (temporal authority) and piri (spiritual authority) underscored the preeminence of spiritual over temporal power.
- Defiance: Its elevated 12-foot platform symbolized resistance against Emperor Jahangir’s authority, whose throne stood at 11 feet.
- Historical Role: The Akal Takht became a rallying point for Sikhs, especially after the execution of Banda Singh Bahadur in 1716. During persecution, Sikhs convened here during Baisakhi and Diwali for Sarbat Khalsa assemblies to make collective decisions. Notably, Maharaja Ranjit Singh called an assembly in 1805 to discuss supporting Jaswant Rao Holkar against British forces.
Leadership and Appointments
- Authority: The Jathedar of the Akal Takht serves as the supreme religious and temporal leader of the Sikh community.
- Eligibility: The position requires deep knowledge of Sikh scriptures and history, moral integrity, and adherence to the Sikh faith.
- Appointment: Initially chosen by the Sarbat Khalsa, the British era shifted control to the Darbar Sahib committee. Post-1925, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) gained authority to appoint the Jathedar under the Sikh Gurdwaras Act.
Religious Discipline
- Tankhah: This term denotes the disciplinary measures imposed on Sikhs who violate the Sikh code of conduct (Rehat Maryada). Penalties may include additional prayers, selfless service (Seva), public apologies, or pilgrimages.
- Process: Any Sikh can be summoned to the Akal Takht, tried, and penalized if they voluntarily acknowledge its authority. The aim is to cultivate humility and eliminate ego.
