Missing Sikh Reference Library Records: Giani Raghbir Singh writes to Amit Shah seeking clarity
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), May 4, 2026: In a significant move aimed at addressing decades-old concerns, former Akal Takht Jathedar and ex-Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib, Giani Raghbir Singh, has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking clarity on missing historical records from 1984.
Giani Raghbir Singh raised serious questions over the fate of priceless manuscripts and documents from the Sikh Reference Library, allegedly removed during the 1984 military operation at the Sri Darbar Sahib complex. His letter, dated May 4, calls for immediate transparency and an official clarification on the issue.
The Sikh Reference Library has long been regarded as a vital repository of Sikh heritage, housing rare handwritten manuscripts of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and historic hukamnamas.
Giani Raghbir Singh, who has also served as Jathedar of Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, said the disappearance or seizure of these materials remains a deeply sensitive issue tied to the sentiments of the global Sikh community.
He pointed out that conflicting claims over the years have created confusion—while some assert that the documents were never returned, others maintain that they were handed back to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). The letter also flagged concerns raised by scholars that some rare manuscripts may have surfaced in international markets and been sold.
Seeking to resolve the long-standing ambiguity, Giani Raghbir Singh has urged the Centre to make all related records, inquiry reports, and documents public. He stressed that full transparency would not only respect religious sentiments but also strengthen trust and accountability.
Calling for urgent action, he urged the government to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves and bring the truth before the public.