Granthi manipulates sacred ceremonies and issues fake marriage certificates to exploit unsuspecting couples

BATHINDA: In a deeply distressing incident, the Granthi of a Gurdwara Sahib located in Hans Nagar, Bathinda, has orchestrated a despicable scheme involving over 100 fraudulent Anand Karajs (Wedding Ceremony), all driven by a relentless greed for money. The Granthi, entrusted with the sacred responsibility of conducting religious ceremonies, took advantage of his position to exploit unsuspecting couples. Moreover, he shamelessly extended this exploitation to arranging marriages among siblings.

The scandal came to light when the police and concerned families initiated an inquiry at the Gurdwara Sahib, unveiling the extent of this appalling scheme. Shockingly, most of the ceremonies were performed for individuals involved in contract marriages aiming to travel abroad. The matter eventually reached Shiromani Panthak Akali Budha Dal, which conducted its own thorough investigation. The Granthi, anticipating repercussions, managed to evade authorities.

Budha Dal has officially lodged a complaint with SSP Bathinda, urging immediate action. Simultaneously, the matter has been brought to the attention of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, prompting the Dharma Prachar Committee to initiate its own probe into this deeply distressing incident.

The accused Granthi devised a sophisticated deception by creating counterfeit letterheads in the names of Gurdwara Sahibs located in Sanjay Nagar and Bir Talab Basti No. 6. The gravity of this fraudulent operation surfaced when a family from Rajasthan attempted to locate the said Gurdwara Sahib, only to discover the deceitful ploy. Furthermore, alarming reports revealed that the Granthi had arranged a marriage between a boy and his aunt's daughter, highlighting the extent of his audacity.

Representatives from Gurdwara Qila Mubarak and Gurdwara Haji Ratan Bathinda have confirmed the matter's escalation to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Shiromani Committee, further emphasizing the necessity for immediate action and accountability. This disgraceful exploitation of sacred customs has shaken the Sikh community, underscoring the urgent need for thorough investigations and stringent actions.