Crisis in the SGPC

Dear Sir,

The recent ex-communication of the SGPC President and the uncompromising stand of both parties sets a dangerous course for Sikhism and the nation. Whatever be the merits of the case, whether the ex President is guilty of mis-conduct, or whether the Sikh jathedars are over-reaching their authority, this controversy must be viewed with consternation by the vast majority of Sikhs, who only want to practice their faith in peace.
Also, the attempts by the Jathedars to involve the State Chief Minister, strikes at the very root of the secular credentials of our governing institutions. This plays into the hands of people who would one day want, for example, a religiously oriented government at the center. Such an outcome cannot benefit the Sikhs, or any other religion for that matter.
Instead of playing politics, and attempting to get political leaders on
their side, the parties to this controversy must either resolve their differences amicably, or approach the courts for redress. They
could go all the way to the Supreme Court if they really felt their
stand was based on basic righteous principles.
I hope that better sense will prevail on all sides.

Regards,

C.S.Venkat, USA