HIS MAJOR CONTROVERSIAL MOVES

Dec 2009: Adopted changes in the Nanakshahi calendar introduced in 2003. The Sikh bodies termed it as a move as reverting the Bikrami Calendar and hitting the distinct identity of the Sikhs. Dec 2011: SAD patron and the then Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal was bestowed upon the title of the ‘Panth Rattan Fakhr-eQaum’ by the Akal Takht. After the move drew flakes from Sikh segments, the title was “withdrawn” during ‘Sarbat Khalsa’ (grand Sikh assembly) held near Amritsar in 2015.

Jan 2015: He congratulates filmmaker Harinder Singh Sikka for the controversial movie ‘Nanak Shah Fakir’ calling it a “fine example of promotion of Sikh faith”. Taking a U-turn after opposition by the Sikh bodies, he announced ban on the movie.

Sept 2015: The Akal Takht pardons the Dera Sacha Sauda head Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a blasphemy case even as it had issued ‘hukamnama’ to boycott the dera and its followers in 2007. Oct 2015: After facing severe criticism from the panth, he revokes the pardon.