The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), long dominated by the Badal dynasty, has seen a significant decline in credibility within the Sikh community. Likewise, the standing of the Takht Sahibaan and their Jathedars has suffered under the current system. This erosion of trust has sparked widespread introspection among Sikhs and increasing calls for reforms to restore the sanctity and authority of these vital institutions.

One of the prominent ideas gaining traction is the establishment of an autonomous system for the Takht Sahibaan—independent of the SGPC or any other statutory body. Yet, the central question remains: how can such a system be created and sustained?

To explore this issue from multiple angles, Sikh Siyasat has launched a series of focused discussions on the state of the SGPC, the governance of the Takht Sahibaan, and the processes for appointing and removing Jathedars.

In earlier episodes, journalist Mandeep Singh interviewed key Sikh voices including former Jathedar Bhai Ranjit Singh (Panthic Akali Lehar), Bhai Baldev Singh Wadala (Sikh Sadbhavna Dal), Bhai Narien Singh Chaura, Bibi Kiranjot Kaur, and S. Karnail Singh Panjoli—each offering critical perspectives on the institutional crisis and the need for Panthic reforms.

In this episode, Mandeep Singh sits down with renowned Sikh historian Prof. Sukhdial Singh for a deeper exploration of the historical and ideological foundations of Sikh institutions. Prof. Sukhdial Singh provides crucial context about the original vision behind the Takht Sahibaan, how that vision has been compromised over time, and how political interference—especially during and after the colonial period—contributed to the erosion of Panthic institutions.

He underscores the necessity of returning to Gurmat-based traditions and collective decision-making models rooted in Sikh values as a way forward.