SGPC permission is necessary for broadcasting Gurbani, no compromise with decency: Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj
All channels should be given rights to broadcast Gurbani: Former Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh
Discussion on live broadcasting rights erupts after SGPC issues legal notice to GTC channel
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 11, 2026 - Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, while talking to the media, has made his clear stand on the issue of live broadcasting of Gurbani from Sri Darbar Sahib Amritsar. He said that every channel or organization should take due permission from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to broadcast Gurbani from Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, as the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee is an elected body of the Sikhs.
The Jathedar Sahib said that the scriptures of Guru Granth Sahib are universal and are for the entire humanity, but this does not mean that anyone should work according to their own will, ignoring the administrative rules and etiquette.
Giving an example, he said that just as the four doors of Sri Darbar Sahib are open to everyone, but no one can say that he will enter without covering his head according to his will. Etiquette and respect will always be maintained and the decision will be taken by the elected body of the Sikhs, the Shiromani Committee. He emphasized that the approval of the Shiromani Committee is mandatory to maintain the administrative system.
Former Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh's different point of view: 'Broadcasting should not be limited to one channel'
On the other hand, former Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Harpreet Singh has presented a different perspective on this matter. He believes that the Shiromani Committee should show a big heart to take the message of Gurbani to every corner of the world.
Giani Harpreet Singh said that the rights to broadcast Gurbani should not be limited to any particular channel, but all channels should be given permission and rights to play Gurbani. He appealed to the Shiromani Committee to come forward with an open day so that maximum number of devotees can be connected to Gurbani while sitting at home.
What is the background to the controversy?
The discussion of this whole matter started when GTC channel started broadcasting live Gurbani Kirtan from Sri Harmandir Sahib on its own level. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee opposed this move. The committee says that broadcasting in this way without any written permission or agreement is against legal and administrative rules. Following this, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee has also sent a legal notice to the relevant GTC channel, after which the debate has intensified in Panthic circles regarding the rights of Gurbani broadcasting.