Shiromani Committee appeals for extension in Balwant Singh Rajoana’s case amid ongoing efforts and government dialogue

The President of the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, has written a letter to Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh of Sri Akal Takht Sahib appealing for an extension in the time regarding the case of Balwant Singh Rajoana. It is noteworthy that a 5-member committee was formed in the meeting held on December 6, 2023, by the five Singh Sahibans of Sri Akal Takht Sahib to cancel the death penalty of Balwant Singh Rajoana and to negotiate with the central government for his release. The order by the five Sahibans stated that if the central government does not cancel Balwant Singh Rajoana’s death penalty by December 31, 2023, then the Shiromani Committee will consider his appeal

Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, the President of the Shiromani Committee, mentioned in the letter sent to Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib that serious efforts have been initiated by the 5-member committee in light of the orders of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. According to the opinions formed in the committee meetings, there is an ongoing correspondence with the central government. However, it might take some more time for discussions as the response to the letter sent to the Prime Minister suggests a discussion with the Home Minister regarding this matter, following which communication is being established with the Home Ministry. Keeping this in mind, the time given until December 31, 2023, should be extended for some more time to reach a concrete decision.

Meanwhile, Advocate Dhami, who participated in an event at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, spoke to the media, stating that the issue of the release of prisoners and cancelling the death penalty of Rajoana is extremely significant for the Sikh community. Hence, efforts are ongoing as per the orders of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He mentioned that the 5-member committee formed by Sri Akal Takht Sahib is making efforts at every level, and it is hoped that there will be a meeting with the government in the coming days.