MEHTA CHOWK: In a significant initiative aimed at collectively addressing the religious, social and ideological challenges confronting the Sikh Panth and Punjab, a new organisation named “Damdami Taksal Sewak Jatha” has been constituted under the leadership of Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa, Head of Damdami Taksal and President of the Sant Samaj.
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According to Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa, the primary objective of the organisation is to strengthen the propagation of Sikhism in the light of Gurmat principles, reconnect the younger generation with Gurbani, Gurmat philosophy and Sikh history, launch extensive awareness campaigns against drug abuse in Punjab, and educate society about challenges such as religious conversions.
However, in Panthic and political circles, Damdami Taksal has historically been viewed as more than merely a religious institution. Over different periods, the Taksal has played a significant role in shaping religious, social and public discourse in Punjab. Against this backdrop, the formation of the Damdami Taksal Sewak Jatha is also being viewed as an important organisational development. With its expanding organisational network across districts and its declared commitment to addressing Panthic issues, observers believe its activities could, over time, influence wider public and political discourse in Punjab.
In view of Damdami Taksal's historical background and public role, the formation of the 'Sewak Jatha' is being viewed not only as a religious and social initiative but also in a broader political context.
Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa said the Jatha would raise important Panthic issues before appropriate forums through constitutional and democratic means. He added that it would also work continuously to uphold the dignity of Sikh institutions, strengthen Gurudwara management, safeguard Punjab's interests, promote social harmony, communal brotherhood and lasting peace. The organisation would also conduct public awareness campaigns against forces that seek to divide society or mislead the youth.
He further stated that the Sikh Panth today faces numerous serious religious, social and ideological challenges. The growing menace of drug abuse, incidents of religious conversion, the alienation of youth from their spiritual roots and the politicisation of Panthic issues are matters of grave concern. In such circumstances, there was an urgent need for a disciplined, service-oriented and well-organised platform, which led to the formation of the Damdami Taksal Sewak Jatha.
Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa further observed that the challenges confronting the Panth today can only be addressed through united religious and social efforts. He clarified that the organisation would always be willing to work with any individual or organisation sincerely committed to the progress of the Sikh Panth, social harmony, national unity, humanitarian service and the welfare of Punjab.
On the occasion, the Head of Damdami Taksal also announced the appointment of office-bearers for various districts, zones and organisational units across Punjab and Haryana.
According to the announcement, Jathedar Gurmeet Singh has been appointed Legal and Media Advisor for Punjab and Haryana, Kuldeep Singh Talokewala as President, Haryana, Baba Gurjant Singh as Vice-President, Haryana and Chairman of Dharam Prachar, and Bhai Tarlochan Singh Nabha Sahib as President, Chandigarh.
In addition, Atma Singh has been appointed President, Malwa Zone; Bhai Jasnoor Singh as Vice-President, Malwa Zone; and Gurtej Singh as Press Secretary, Malwa Zone.
District Presidents have also been appointed for various districts, including Sukhlal Singh Basarke (Amritsar), Avtar Singh Maluwal (Tarn Taran), Giani Gurpreet Singh Vaid (Gurdaspur), Dr. Avtar Singh Butter (Pathankot), Karamjit Singh (Jalandhar), Giani Tarlochan Singh Sahaypur (Hoshiarpur), Sukhjit Singh Dhappai (Kapurthala), Bhai Jagtar Singh Sekhu (Bathinda), Baba Sukhdev Singh Sidhana Sahib (Sangrur), Balraj Singh Bhinder Kalan (Moga), Satpal Singh Bhure (Barnala), Mahinder Singh Narike (Malerkotla), Puran Singh Jalalabad (Fazilka), Harpal Singh Mallanwala (Ferozepur), Sukhwinder Singh (Sri Muktsar Sahib), Pyar Singh Jhaliyan (Rupnagar), Bhola Singh Budhimall (Faridkot), Bhai Satwinder Singh Bhari (Fatehgarh Sahib), Davinder Singh Banga (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar), Jaswinder Singh Mangat (Patiala), Bhai Simranjit Singh Sahora (Mohali), Jathedar Boota Singh Makha (Mansa), Gurpyar Singh (Sardulgarh), Giani Bachan Singh (Jaito), and Bhai Gurnam Singh (Fatiabad).
Further appointments include Bhai Pragat Singh as Constituency President, Kalianwali; Gurmeet Singh as Block President, Badagura; Kuldeep Singh as Vice-President, Badagura; and Baba Bagga Singh as Block President, Audan.
Congratulating the newly appointed office-bearers, Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa called upon them to discharge their responsibilities with selfless service, discipline and complete dedication in accordance with Sikh traditions and the dignity of the Guru's House. He expressed confidence that the Damdami Taksal Sewak Jatha would work devotedly to carry the message of the Sikh Gurus to every household, reconnect the younger generation with Sikh values, strengthen moral character in society and contribute towards the continued progress and well-being of the Sikh Panth.