CHANDIGARH, Punjab—Former Akal Takht Jathedar Bhai Ranjit Singh held a press conference in Chandigarh today in which he announced the formation of new religio-political body named ‘Panthik Akali Lehar’. He has formed this new outfit in collaboration with Sikh preacher Baba Sarabjot Singh Bedi.

Elaborating the details, Jathedar Ranjit Singh said that he was upset over chaos prevalent in Sikh community today as the Akal Takht Jathedars have become marionettes of political masters so he decided to take this initiative to tackle attacks on Sikhism.

“Panthik Akali Lehar (Regd.) is not a political party, but is a platform with an appeal to the Guru Nanak Nam Leva Sikhs around the world committed to the Panth and have the capacity to bring about a change and undo the worngs that have been committed, to join irrespective of their political affiliation. We seek their blessings, advices and active participation for the Chardi Kala of the Panth along with Sarbat Da Bhala,” reads a press note issued by Bhai Ranjit Singh.

It is pertinent to note here that Bhai Ranjit Singh had punished Nirankari chief Gurbachan “Singh” in 1980 who was responsible for martyrdom of 13 Sikhs on April 13, 1978. Former SGPC chief S. Gurcharan Singh Tohra had managed to get him released from jail by appointing him as Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib in 1990’s.

Bhai Ranjit Singh has tried unsuccessfully in past while partnering with various Sikh outfits, including the Sikh Sadhbhawna Dal last year in Delhi Gurdwara elections.