Parallel ‘jathedars’ take ‘action’ against Maluka, three others

AMRITSAR: Parallel “jathedars” of Sikh temporal seats appointed by radical Sikh groups declared on Thursday that they have “excommunicated” Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) minister Sikander Singh Maluka, two members of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), and Neeldhari sect chief Satnam Singh Pipli Wale from the religion. Maluka and SGPC members Major Singh and Satnam Singh Bhai Rupa were earlier asked by the “jathedars” to appear before them on January 24 for alleged distortion of ardas (prayer) at Rampura Phul in Bathinda. However, they did not comply. On Thursday, “jathedars” Dhian Singh Mand, Amrik Singh Ajnala and Baljit Singh Daduwal met at Akal Takht to announce their “action”. They “excommunicated” Satnam Singh for “distorting Sikh history”. They also stated that action would be taken against those who approached Dera Sacha Sauda for votes. Maluka was already declared ‘tank-