Questions Arise Over Discrepancies in Guru Granth Sahib Saroops

Probe Uncovers Significant Numbers of Missing and Unaccounted-For Holy Texts

Concerns are surfacing within the Sikh community regarding the management and accounting of Saroops (physical copies) of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. A recent report from a probe panel established by the acting Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Harpreet Singh, has highlighted significant discrepancies in the records maintained by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). The findings suggest a substantial number of Saroops are unaccounted for, raising questions about oversight and administrative practices.

Probe Panel’s Findings: A Stark Picture Emerges

According to the findings released by the probe panel, a total of 328 Saroops of the Guru Granth Sahib are reported as missing from the SGPC’s official records. This figure alone points to a considerable gap in the inventory management of these sacred texts. Furthermore, the panel identified that the SGPC had prepared an additional 61 and 125 Saroops without these preparations being duly entered into the committee’s ledgers. The current whereabouts of these numerous Saroops remain unknown, according to the report.

SGPC’s Role and Responsibilities

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is a pivotal organization responsible for the management of gurdwaras and the promotion of Sikhism. Its mandate includes the careful preservation and dissemination of the Guru Granth Sahib. The discrepancies highlighted by the probe panel bring into focus the critical need for robust record-keeping and transparent accountability within the SGPC’s operations, particularly concerning the handling of holy scriptures.

Community Reactions and Calls for Accountability

These revelations have understandably led to considerable concern among Sikh sangat (congregation). The sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib is paramount, and the loss or misplacement of any Saroop is viewed with deep seriousness. Members of the community are seeking clarity on how these discrepancies occurred and what steps are being taken to locate the missing Saroops and prevent future occurrences. Calls for greater transparency and stricter adherence to established protocols are being voiced.

Examining the Administrative Process

The report’s findings suggest potential issues within the SGPC’s internal administrative processes for recording the creation and distribution of Saroops. The failure to make entries for 186 Saroops (61 + 125) indicates a breakdown in the systematic logging of these important religious items. Understanding the specific administrative failures, whether they stem from procedural gaps, human error, or other factors, is crucial for addressing the root causes of these discrepancies.

Addressing the Discrepancies: Next Steps and Potential Solutions

The immediate priority for the SGPC should be to thoroughly investigate the circumstances leading to the missing and unrecorded Saroops. This would likely involve a detailed audit of inventory records, interviews with relevant personnel, and potentially a review of distribution channels. Implementing enhanced digital tracking systems and reinforcing training for staff involved in the preparation and management of Saroops could be vital steps to bolster accountability. Establishing a clear and publicly accessible system for tracking Saroops would also foster greater trust and transparency within the community.

The Significance of the Guru Granth Sahib

The Guru Granth Sahib is not merely a book; it is revered as the living Guru for Sikhs. Its physical form commands the utmost respect and care. Each Saroop is considered a direct manifestation of the Guru’s divine presence. Therefore, any mishandling or disappearance of a Saroop is a matter of profound religious and cultural significance, impacting the faith and practices of millions worldwide.

Key Takeaways:

• A probe panel report indicates 328 Saroops of the Guru Granth Sahib are missing from SGPC records.
• An additional 186 Saroops were prepared by the SGPC without corresponding record entries.
• The current whereabouts of these Saroops are unknown.
• The findings have raised concerns within the Sikh community regarding administrative oversight.
• Calls are being made for greater transparency and accountability from the SGPC.

References

Sikhsiyasat.com report on missing Saroops