Satkaar

Press Release and Sangat Update Birmingham, UK - 2 January 2011 SATURDAY 15 JANUARY 2011: PEACEFUL RALLY AT RST BIRMINGHAM All Sangat requested to recite Chaupai Sahib prayer in advance and attend the PEACEFUL RALLY Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! The Satkaar Campaign has come to understand that there may be a party planned at the Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia Hall, which is annexed to Ramgarhia Sikh Temple (RST), Birmingham, on Saturday 15 January 2011. Despite notifying the RST committee of the gross violation of Sikh Maryada (Sikh Religious Protocol) that is occurring by allowing meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties on Gurdwara premises in our letter to them dated 26 November 2010, it is very regretful that the RST committee are not taking any immediate action to stop this continuous Beadbi (Sacrilege) occurring. The Satkaar Campaign is aware of at least two parties having taken place at the hall, involving meat and alcohol, since 26 November 2010. The UK Sikh Community is deeply disturbed by the RST committee's continued defiance of Sikh Maryada and Akal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh (Edict). This continued defiance by the RST committee can only be interpreted as a deliberate attempt to offend the entire Sikh Community. The President of RST Birmingham (Mr Jasvinder Singh Sagoo) was again recently asked to cancel all parties (including the party on 15 January 2011) at the Gurdwara. However, this request has not been accepted by Mr Sagoo. Accordingly, the UK Sikh Community will be holding a peaceful rally at RST Birmingham on Saturday 15 January 2011 from 1pm, the aim of which will be to raise awareness to the RST committee of their obligation to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj, Akal Takhat Sahib and the Sikh Nation. Further details in relation to peaceful rally, including the protocol that must be observed, will be provided in the coming days. The UK Sikh Community are also humbly requested to recite the Chaupai Sahib prayer as much as possible in the run up to the peaceful rally, as it is only with Guru Ji's blessings that the Sikh Nation will successfully reach a resolution in this matter. It should be noted that, from the outset, the RST committee have only been requested to comply with Akal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh to stop meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties on the Gurdwara estate going forward. The present Jathedaar of Akal Takhat Sahib, Singh Sahib Giani Gurbachan Singh Ji, recently restated live on the Sikh Channel on 4 December 2010 that the Gurmat principles set out in the 2006 Sandesh still apply today. Numerous attempts have been made to have a face-to-face meeting with the RST committee as soon as possible to discuss this issue, though this meeting has been continually delayed by the RST committee. As has always been the case, and as is still the case, Satkaar Sevadaars are contactable at any time to have a meeting with the RST committee, to resolve this issue as soon as possible. As mentioned in the initial letter to the RST committee dated 26 November 2010, the UK Sikh Community cannot compromise on Sikh principles or Akal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh. Nevertheless, representatives of the UK Sikh Community will be available to meet with the RST committee on the weekend of 8-9 January 2011, if the RST committee accepts this offer for a meeting. However, if the RST committee does not accept this offer for a meeting, representatives of the UK Sikh Community will want to meet the RST committee on Saturday 15 January 2011. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! For the history on this issue, please refer to the following thread: http://www.sikhsanga...eet-birmingham/ Admin Note: Old thread for future reference can be found here: http://www.sikhsanga...eet-birmingham/

SANGAT UPDATE Birmingham, UK - 27 December 2010 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Following on from our previous Sangat Update, please see below a further email correspondence with the committee of Ramgarhia Sikh Temple (RST), Birmingham. Despite many individual members of the Sikh Community attempting to establish a courteous dialogue with the RST committee, it seems that the RST committee are not interested in swiftly addressing the blasphemous issue that alcohol, meat and parties are continually permitted on the complex of the holy Gurdwara estate. As the global Sikh Community are aware, this is in violation of Sikh maryada, Akal Takht Sahib's 2006 Sandesh and comments recently made by Singh Sahib Giani Gurbachan Singh Ji on this issue. Sadly, we also understand that it has been continually intimated by the RST committee that the Satkaar campaign is: (i) potentially a physical threat to the RST committee/the local Sangat of the Gurdwara, and (ii) raising this issue due to a "caste"-based vendetta. This is absolutely not the case, and we have again sought to reassure the RST committee of this. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk To: info@rstbirmingham.com CC: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk Subject: RE: SANGAT UPDATE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:21:23 +0000 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! This email addresses two issues. Firstly, who/what is the Satkaar campaign, and secondly, it repeats issues already raised with you, the committee of Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham (RST), in our previous email correspondence with you. Despite our best efforts, we have not had any success in scheduling a face-to-face meeting with you, so we have been unable to provide these explanations and assurances to you in person. Once again, and before this issue escalates further, we would request that the RST committee agree to our request for a meeting as soon as possible, so that we can collectively work towards resolving this issue with humility, and mutual pyaar and satkaar. As always, Satkaar Sevadaars are contactable at any time, to arrange a meeting with the RST committee or any other dialogue, by Email: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk or Telephone: 07507 330 548. As mentioned previously, once a mutually convenient meeting time is confirmed, we will be happy to confirm to you in advance of the meeting the names of the relevant attendees representing the UK Sangat. (1) Who/what is the Satkaar campaign? In our last email correspondence, the RST committee asked the following questions: "Please could you advise us the formation of Satkaar Sewadaars. Are you a registered or recognised body? Have you been given any authority to act on the behalf of another organisation wishing to implement the sandesh?" The Satkaar campaign is not a formal body in any sense. It is neither a registered charity nor a private association, nor does it have any formal office or office-bearers. Rather, the Satkaar campaign, and its Sevadaars (i.e., Satkaar Sevadaars), is a UK Sangat-led grassroots Gurdwara reform movement, initially focused on preventing the gross sacrilege of parties, meat, alcohol and tobacco being permitted on Gurdwara premises or any premises funded with the Sangat's donations to Guru Ji's Golak. This cause, as an issue of concern for the UK Sangat, was formalised on Saturday 16 October 2010, when hundreds of concerned members of the UK Sangat – young and old, male and female, amritdhaari and non-amritdhaari, from all Panthic Jathebandiaan and backgrounds – travelled from far and wide to peacefully protest against a proposed party at Grays Gurdwara, which would see alcohol, tobacco and meat permitted on Gurdwara premises. With Guru Ji's blessings, the party was prevented from occurring. Subsequently, Grays and Edinburgh Gurdwaras have also agreed to close down their party halls. More importantly, the UK Sangat came together on Saturday 16 October 2010 to express frustration at all UK Gurdwara committees who show flagrant disregard for Gurmat Maryada and openly defy Akal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh. Indeed, the final sentence of the 2006 Sandesh itself mentions that the worldwide Sikh Sangat must strictly observe the Gurmat principles set out in the 2006 Sandesh. Therefore, the UK Sangat's authority to enforce Gurmat Maryada in all UK Gurdwaras in relation to this issue comes directly from Akal Takhat Sahib, the supreme policy/decision-making body of the Sikhs. Bearing all this in mind, the UK Sangat did an Ardaas that day in front of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj to uphold Akal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh in all UK Gurdwaras. Subsequently, Akal Takhat Sahib's Jathedaar, Singh Sahib Giani Gurbachan Singh Ji, has again endorsed the Gurmat principles set out in the 2006 Sandesh on the Panth Time Special aired live on the Sikh Channel on Saturday 4 December 2010. Although the Satkaar campaign has no direct affiliation to any organisation or Gurdwara, it is working closely and actively with, and has the support of, all respected UK Panthic Jathebandiaan and many leading Gurdwaras in the UK (including in the West Midlands). Such organisations and Gurdwaras have indicated that they are willing to accompany Satkaar Sevadaars in any meeting with the RST committee. (2) Satkaar campaign is a PEACEFUL and non-Caste based movement Sadly, Satkaar Sevadaars are receiving feedback from community elders speaking to the RST committee and members of the general Sangat that the RST committee is intimating that the Satkaar campaign is: (i) potentially a physical threat to the RST committee/the local Sangat of the Gurdwara, and (ii) raising this issue due to a "caste"-based vendetta. As mentioned on numerous occasions, our sole concern in this matter is to ensure that the Beadbi that is currently occurring in the Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia Hall is stopped, so that meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties are no longer permitted on such premises. We again would like to re-emphasise that we do NOT encourage violence and we stand for a completely PEACEFUL Gurdwara reform movement. We have previously mentioned to the RST committee and, we once again mention, that to the extent that the RST committee have any concerns on this, they should please provide to us the details of the police officers they are liaising with in the West Midlands Police, and we will be happy to provide to such police officers the relevant assurances that they may be seeking. The RST committee should also note that Satkaar Sevadaars have also directly been in contact with officers from the West Midlands Police in relation to this issue. The RST committee have mentioned that they have received threatening/nuisance phone calls. The Satkaar campaign has always requested the UK Sangat to speak to the RST committee respectfully and courteously on this issue, though it cannot be responsible for the actions of people so acting otherwise. Also, Satkaar Sevadaars have always advised the RST committee to raise any issues in this regard with the police, and we have been told by the RST committee that this has been done. The UK Sangat would be very interested to know what action, if any, the police is taking on this in relation to any specific cases. We would be grateful if you could advise the UK Sangat of this. Satkaar Sevadaars feel rather embarrassed in having to repeat that we believe that we are all equal GurSikh brothers and sisters, and that there can be, and there is, no issue of caste arising within the Satkaar campaign. There are individuals from all walks of background who do Seva with the Satkaar campaign. We would re-emphasise that our Panth is unfortunately, against our Guru Ji's core teachings, riddled with division and that we wish the Panth to be united through mutual understanding and love. This can ONLY be achieved if we all follow Gurmat principles and encourage maintaining maximum Satkaar of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- CC: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk From: Info@rstbirmingham.com Subject: Re: SANGAT UPDATE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Fri, 10 Dec 2010 09:16:12 +0000 To: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk Please could you advise us the formation of Satkaar Sewadaars. Are you a registered or recognised body? Have you been given any authority to act on the behalf of another organisation wishing to implement the sandesh? We have spoken to the Police and other bodies who asked us to correspond only to a full postal address. Therefore we shall only have future dialogue to a full uk registered address which does not include po box numbers. Regards On 9 Dec 2010, at 23:43, Satkaar Sevadaars satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk wrote: PLEASE DO FORWARD TO ALL YOUR SIKH CONTACTS - It's important to continue raising awareness of this issue in the Sangat SANGAT UPDATE Birmingham, UK - 9 December 2010 RST Committee claim their inability to meet UK Sangat until second week of January Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! As servants of the UK Sangat, we feel it is our duty to keep the UK Sangat fully informed of developments in relation to the Satkaar campaign. Please see below the email exchange that has been had with the committee of Ramgarhia Sikh Temple (RST), Birmingham. The RST committee have also confirmed orally to members of the UK Sangat that they will not meet with the UK Sangat on this issue until the second week of January. As mentioned in our email below to the RST committee, Satkaar Sevadaars wish to ensure that there is full transparency and accountability for the actions of all involved. In light of this, so that this cannot be used as an excuse to deflect attention away from the real issue (which is meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties being permitted on Gurdwara premises), we would like to re-iterate that we have always requested, and we again request, that the UK Sangat speak at all times to the relevant committee members with courtesy and respect - this is the Gursikh way. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

SANGAT UPDATE Birmingham, UK - 9 December 2010 RST Committee claim their inability to meet UK Sangat until second week of January Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! As servants of the UK Sangat, we feel it is our duty to keep the UK Sangat fully informed of developments in relation to the Satkaar campaign. Please see below the email exchange that has been had with the committee of Ramgarhia Sikh Temple (RST), Birmingham. The RST committee have also confirmed orally to members of the UK Sangat that they will not meet with the UK Sangat on this issue until the second week of January. As mentioned in our email below to the RST committee, Satkaar Sevadaars wish to ensure that there is full transparency and accountability for the actions of all involved. In light of this, so that this cannot be used as an excuse to deflect attention away from the real issue (which is meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties being permitted on Gurdwara premises), we would like to re-iterate that we have always requested, and we again request, that the UK Sangat speak at all times to the relevant committee members with courtesy and respect - this is the Gursikh way. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! --------------------------------------------------------------- From: info@rstbirmingham.com To: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk Subject: RE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Mon, 6 Dec 2010 18:19:39 +0000 Our sincerest Apologies but as discussed we will not be in a postion to meet with you until the second week of January. I also wish to inform you that smoking is not permitted anywhere on the Gurdwara grounds inlcuding the car park and adjacent buildings. It is a strict condition of booking that tobacco is not allowed in the hall which is not part of the building. There is also a strict rule that meat, alchol and tobacco and consumption prior to entering is strictly prohibited at the Gurdwara, Langar Hall and Car Park. Regards ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk To: info@rstbirmingham.com CC: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk Subject: RE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Mon, 6 Dec 2010 14:23:16 +0000 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Many thanks for your email. Further to the points raised therein, and also certain concerns/issues which Dr Pyara Singh Bhogal raised in the Panth Time Special on Sikh Channel on 4 December 2010, there are certain issues which we would like to clarify/address. Firstly, Satkaar Sevadaars would like to re-emphasise that we do NOT encourage violence and we stand for a completely PEACEFUL Gurdwara reform movement. Our sole concern is to ensure that the Beadbi that is currently occurring on certain Gurdwara premises throughout the UK is stopped, and that meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties are no longer allowed on such Gurdwara premises. Accordingly, we are extremely sorry to hear about any previous instances of violence/criminal damage that may have occurred, as mentioned in your email below. Satkaar Sevadaars were not aware of such incidents, and it goes without saying (though we will mention this expressly for the avoidance of doubt), we had absolutely no involvement in such incidents. We are all children of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj, and accordingly, we endorse the view that we must treat each other with dignity and respect. Further, as Essex Police will be able to confirm, our overriding emphasis in the previous Grays peaceful protest was to ensure that it passed off completely peacefully. To the extent that you still have any concerns on this, please let us know the details of the police officers you are liaising with in the West Midlands Police, and we will be happy to provide them with the relevant assurances that they may be seeking. Dr Bhogal mentioned that he was disturbed by certain 'posts' made on the SikhSangat internet forum. Satkaar Sevadaars cannot control, and are not responsible for, what individuals write on such forum. If you find anything particularly offensive or factually incorrect, we would encourage you to join the SikhSangat forum and clarify any issues you are unhappy with. Further, you will note that we have always encouraged the Sangat to speak to your Committee courteously and respectfully in all our communications with the Sangat. To the extent that there have been any misunderstandings in communications between your Committee and members of the Sangat, we understand that there have been some discussions seeking to clarify/resolve such misunderstandings. One concern that we understand you have, which Dr Bhogal expressed on Panth Time, is that you feel the "Ramgarhia" caste/community is being targeted by the Satkaar campaign. As the Sangat watching Panth Time saw, the Panth Time panel members at once sought to assure Dr Bhogal that this is absolutely NOT the case. As you well know, our Guru Sahibaans eradicated casteism within Sikhi philosophy. Accordingly, we are all equal GurSikh brothers and sisters and we would like to formally re-iterate the point to you that there can be, and there is, no issue of caste arising within the Satkaar campaign. There are individuals from all walks of background who do Seva with the grassroots, UK Sangat-led Satkaar movement. As mentioned above, collectively, our sole concern is to prevent meat, alcohol and tobacco being permitted, and parties being held, on UK Gurdwara premises. Our Panth is unfortunately, against our Guru Ji's core teachings, riddled with division. We wish the Panth to be united through mutual understanding and love. This can only be achieved if we all follow Gurmat principles and encourage maintaining maximum Satkaar of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj. We appreciate that the Gurdwara Committee will need to go through its relevant internal processes to pass a binding resolution confirming that it will abide by the Gurmat principles enshrined in Akal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh, and we understand that, due to certain logistical issues, this may not be possible prior to the second week of January. However, we are disappointed (as we think you are suggesting in your email below) that not even certain members of the Committee that are around prior to such date will be able to meet us before then. As Akaal Takhat Sahib's Jathedaar, Singh Sahib Giani Gurbachan Singh Ji, mentioned on Panth Time, we should seek to resolve this issue through mutual discussion and pyaar, and we are keen that this is resolved as soon as possible. We would again encourage you to set some time aside to meet members of the UK Sangat as soon as possible to discuss this matter further, and again, we propose a meeting (as we did in our email to you below) at 5pm on Saturday 11 December 2010 at Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham. If this time is not convenient, please suggest another time during such weekend, or any weekend thereafter, when it may be convenient to meet. Once a mutually convenient meeting time is confirmed, we will be happy to confirm to you in advance of the meeting the names of the relevant attendees representing the UK Sangat. Please note that, as Satkaar Sevadaars are only humble servants of the UK Sangat, our duty is to ensure that the UK Sangat is fully informed of any progress in relation to our ongoing Seva. Accordingly, we will circulate and publish this email exchange for the benefit of the UK Sangat. Any responses you provide will also be made publicly available for the benefit of the UK Sangat. This will also help to ensure that there is full transparency and accountability for the actions of all involved. Going forwards, our communication with you will be by email through this email address, unless you specifically request otherwise. You can contact us by using this same e-mail address, or you can call us at any time through one of our Sevadaars on 07507 330 548. We would respectfully request you to please help develop this dialogue, and if possible, have a face-to-face meeting as soon as possible (as suggested above), so that we can reach a mutual understanding and trust, and a solution as soon as possible, which ensures that the Gurmat principles explained by Akaal Takhat Sahib's Jathedaar on Panth Time, and set out in the 2006 Sandesh, are fully respected and followed. We look forward to hearing from you very shortly. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: info@rstbirmingham.com To: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk CC: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk Subject: RE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Fri, 3 Dec 2010 12:26:41 +0000 We have had an indepth meeting with the Commitee members and the earliest date that we can meet is the 2nd week of january as key individuals from the managemnet Commitee are currently abroad due to return in the first week of January. A formal response will be sent to certain individuals and the members will be informed of our response likewise as they will make the ultimate decision and only members who have contributed to the Gurdwara will have a say in the decision which will be made, no external bodies or influences will be entertained. The Gurdwara is a registered charity, the charity comission have been informed along with the police of the 'complaints' made against the members along with the threatening phone calls which were made and the posts on 'sikh sangat'. The police are currently investigating as you may be aware that previsouly the former President's car's were burned and a prominent member was seriously injured in a horrific attack instigated by certain members of the 'sangat'. The names of these individuals are also known who have bought the Sikh name to shame and the police is investigating if there are any links to this. Finally, we would appreciate that all names and contact numbers of the Uk Sangat wishing to talk to use are forwarded and formal invitations will be sent out. The Comittee is willing to talk to and consider thier viewpoints however the final decision will be that of the Gurdwara Members. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh -------------------------------------------------------------------- From: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk To: info@rstbirmingham.com CC: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk Subject: RE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Fri, 3 Dec 2010 11:59:55 +0000 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Many thanks for your email. Please feel free to contact the sevadaars via email or the phone number on the letter addressed to the President Mr Jasvinder Singh Sagoo. Various members from the UK Sangat would very much like to meet with the Gurdwara Committee representatives. Can a time of 5pm on Saturday 11 December 2010 at Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham be proposed for a meeting? Look forward to your response. Many thanks, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: info@rstbirmingham.com To: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk Subject: RE: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Thu, 2 Dec 2010 08:40:53 +0000 Dear Satkaarsevadaars, Could you please provide you contact details and names so that contact can be made with yourselves and discussion take place regarding the matter. Saadh Sangat Ji, we have created this website to keep you updated with the Latest Events, New Multimedia Content and General Activities at the Gurdwara Sahib that are taking place. We hope that you will enjoy browsing through this website. We shall be adding to the site regularly, so please keep checking back to see what's new. Do you want to Learn how to play Harmonium and Sing Kirtan, please visit "Learn Kirtan" youtube channel. At Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, we are running weekly classes for Punjabi, IT, Yoga, Maths, Kirtan, Gurbani Santhiya etc. for more information on days and timings, please visit our website. For more information and daily updates, please visit our website at www.RSTBirmingham.com If you wish to subscribe your friend's or family member's email so they also get the new letters and events updates, please send their email address to info@rstbirmingham.com Bhul Chuk Maaf Karna Ji, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh -------------------------------------------------- From: satkaarsevadaars@hotmail.co.uk To: satkaar@hotmail.co.uk Subject: Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Date: Sun, 28 Nov 2010 23:55:36 +0000 PLEASE DO FORWARD TO ALL YOUR SIKH CONTACTS - It's important to continue raising awareness of this issue in the Sangat Press Release Birmingham, UK. 27 November 2010 Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Meat, alcohol and parties allowed in Gurdwara owned hall Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! After the successful closure of the Grays and Edinburgh Gurdwara party halls, the local congregation of Birmingham have now raised concerns in regards to the anti-Sikh activities allowed to take place in the Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia Hall which is managed by the Committee of Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, Birmingham. The Sikh congregation of Birmingham have been offended by the continual promotion of a belligerent atmosphere under the banner of a great Sikh icon (Baba Jassa Singh Ramgarhia) and with the patronage of the Gurdwara Committee itself, where parties, meat, alcohol and smoking are permitted on the Gurdwara Jagir (Estate). Due to these issues, a dialogue has now officially been initiated between Satkaar Sevadaars and members of the Committee of this Gurdwara (please see the letter attached). We now humbly request that members of the UK Sangat, other Parbandhik Committees and Sikh Leaders contact this Committee in a respectful fashion to help them understand their obligation to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Sikh Maryada. President – Mr Jasvinder Singh Sagoo General Secretary – Mr Gurcharan Singh Bahra Tel: 0121 236 5435 0121 233 2647 Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, 6-9 Graham Street, Birmingham. B1 3LA

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! The Sikh Channel were requested to attend Grays Gurdwara as some individuals from Grays made claims that the Panth Time live programme broadcast on Saturday misrepresented the committee and trustees of Grays Gurdwara. The Sikh Channel crew arrived at the Gurdwara on Sunday evening to interview these individuals who subsequently declined to give an interview. The individuals were invited to attend the Sikh Channel studio today to air their viewpoint and did not. Due to the lack of participation from the specific individuals of the Grays Gurdwara Committee and Trustees, the earlier part of this programme was cancelled. Individuals representing the Satkaar Campaign attended the programme. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Sikh Channel LIVE , What happened in Grays? Tuesday 7 December from 6pm Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Sikh Channel (Sky Channel 840) will host a LIVE show this evening at 6pm regarding the UK Sangat-led Satkaar campaign. Attempts have been made to distort and misrepresent the peaceful nature of the protest held on 16 October 2010 in the Grays Gurdwara Complex. Sikh Channel will offer the opportunity for representatives from the Grays Gurdwara committee and community to voice their opinion on this show. GurSikhs who were present at the peaceful protest will also be attending the show. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Live in 30 minutes.

BBC West Midlands radio - Midlands Masala - 7pm Sunday 5 December 2010 http://www.bbc.co.uk/wm/programmes BBC West Midlands radio LIVE show tonight will be discussing the concerns raised by British Sikhs in relation to the abuse of some UK Gurdwara properties where meat, alcohol and tobacco are permitted and parties are allowed. Listen live .

Press Release Birmingham, UK - 3 December 2010 Sikh Channel live phone-in on Satkaar issues Saturday 4 December from 7pm Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! In a further boost for the grassroots, UK Sangat-led Satkaar campaign requesting the closure of all party halls in Gurdwaras which allow meat, alcohol and tobacco on their premises, Sikh Channel (Sky Channel 840) will host a live two hour show on this issue from 7pm on Saturday 4 December. Satkaar Sevadaars understand that viewers will have the opportunity to participate in the show by calling in on the following number: 0121 380 1050. The UK Sangat is respectfully requested to take part in the show and make the point that the UK Sangat will no longer tolerate the sacrilege of Gurdwara committees allowing meat, alcohol, tobacco and parties on our Gurdwara premises. Satkaar Sevadaars would also like to thank Sikh TV (Sky Channel 848) for providing in their scroll a continuous message congratulating the Grays and Edinburgh Gurdwara committees for complying with Akaal Takhat Sahib's 2006 Sandesh, and a further humble request to those Gurdwaras that are not yet doing so, to abide by such Sandesh. Satkaar Sevadaars also understand that Sunrise TV (Sky Channel 830) will be running a piece about the Satkaar campaign on Sunday 5 December from 9.30am. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Press Release Birmingham, UK - 1 December 2010 BBC cover Satkaar campaign Copies of Akal Takhat Sahib Hukumnaama and Sandesh attached Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! In a sign of the increasing momentum for the grassroots, UK Sangat-led Satkaar campaign requesting the closure of all party halls in Gurdwaras which allow meat, alcohol and tobacco on their premises, the BBC Asian Network presented a discussion show on this matter on Tuesday 30 November. The discussion ran for just over an hour. The BBC Asian Network also covered this issue in their hourly news bulletins on such day. The discussion can be heard on the following BBC iPlayer link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b00wbkwk/Nihal_30_11_2010 It will be evident to any Sikh that has loyalty to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj, the Khaalsa Panth and Akal Takhat Sahib, that those trying to justify allowing meat, alcohol and tobacco on Gurdwara premises in the discussion show had absolutely no basis from a Gurmat perspective. Several other media organisations have expressed an interest in covering the Satkaar campaign. Satkaar Sevadaars will keep the UK Sangat updated as to when there will be coverage. Members of the UK Sangat have also requested Satkaar Sevadaars for copies of the 1998 Hukumnaama and 2006 Sandesh from Akal Takhat Sahib which are relevant to this movement to prevent Beadbi happening in our Gurdwaras. Please find attached copies of the 1998 Hukumnaama and 2006 Sandesh for your reference. Even though the offending Gurdwaras with party halls have already been provided with these, we would request the Sangat to individually forward them again to the relevant Committee members. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Press Release Birmingham,UK. 27 November 2010 Ramgharia Sikh Temple, Birmingham violate Sikh Maryada Meat, alcohol and parties allowed in Gurdwara owned hall. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! After the successful closure of the Grays and Edinburgh Gurdwara party halls, the local congregation of Birmingham have now raised concerns in regards to the anti-Sikh activities allowed to take place in the Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgarhia Hall which is managed by the Committee of Ramgharia Sikh Temple, Birmingham. The Sikh congregation of Birmingham have been offended by the continual promotion of a belligerent atmosphere under the banner of a great Sikh Icon (Baba Jassa Singh Ramgharia) and with the patronage of the Gurdwara Committee itself, where parties, meat, alcohol and smoking are permitted on the Gurdwara Jagir (Estate). Due to these issues, an official dialogue has now started between Satkaar Sewadaars and members of the Committee of this Gurdwara (please see the letter attached below). We now humbly request that members of the UK Sangat, other Parbahandak Committees and Sikh Leaders contact this Committee in a respectful fashion to help them understand their obligation to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Sikh Maryada. President – Mr Jasvinder Singh Sagoo General Secretary – Mr Gurcharan Singh Bahra Tel: 0121 236 5435 or 0121 233 2647 Ramgharia Sikh Temple, 6-9 Graham Street, Birmingham. B1 3LA

Press Release Grays, UK. 23 November 2010 Grays Gurdwara Committee agree to adhere to Akaal Takht Sandesh Meat, alcohol or parties no longer allowed on Gurdwara property Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Further to the peaceful demonstration at Grays Gurdwara on Saturday 16 October, the Committee, Trustees and local Sangat of Grays held a general meeting on Sunday 21 November, and they confirmed that they will abide by Akal Takhat Sahib's Sandesh so that no meat, alcohol or tobacco will be permitted, or parties will be held, on Gurdwara premises in the future. We are thankful to the local Sevadaars in Grays who championed this cause in the Grays Sangat. This successful outcome, together with the closure of the party hall at Edinburgh Gurdwara just last week, has been achieved with Guru Sahib's Ji Blessings encapsulated by the collective unity and resolve of the UK Sangat (including young and old, Singhs and Kaurs, and across all Jathebandiaan and organisations) to enforce Gurmat Maryada in all Gurdwaras. The campaign to eradicate all UK Gurdwaras of party halls which permit meat, alcohol and tobacco on their premises is extremely active. The UK Sangat is determined to tackle this issue in a peaceful, methodical and co-ordinated way, so that all Gurdwaras fulfil their obligation to abide by the Akal Takhat Sahib issued maryada (protocol). The UK Sangat is requested to continue with their pro-active efforts of engaging peacefully, courteously and firmly with the relevant Gurdwara committees that do not abide by Akal Takhat Sahib's Sandesh. Please keep Satkaar Sevadaars informed of local developments. If required, Satkaar Sevadaars will assist local Sangat to escalate and resolve these issues, so that the satkaar and maryada for Guru Ji in all UK Gurdwaras is maintained. In addition to the Grays and Edinburgh situations, the Sangat will shortly be provided details of a third Gurdwara in Birmingham which is refusing to comply with Akal Takhat Sahib's Sandesh. Akal Takhat Sahib has also been provided with the full details of the 15 or so Gurdwaras in the UK with party halls. Satkaar Sevadaars are awaiting an instruction from Akal Takhat Sahib regarding these 15 Gurdwara Committees. All such Gurdwaras are requested to renounce as soon as possible their anti-Sikh activities and make their institutions ones which enable our Guru's principles to flourish. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! It will always be to the advantage of the UK Sikh Community when Sikh Gurdwaras and Institutes unite to provide a framework to work collectively. The Sikh Council UK must be congratulated for its detailed constitution which states eligibility for membership is based on the Gurdwara's/ Sikh Institute's acceptance of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the one and only eternal Guru of the Sikhs and the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Ji is above all other Sikh Institutes. However, a number of Gurdwaras who have currently committed to/or will commit to the Sikh Council UK have affiliated properties where anti gurmat practices are promoted such as parties on Gurdwara estate, allowing meat, alcohol and tobacco. This is against Sikh Rehit Maryada and Sandesh issued in 2006 by Sri Akal Takht Sahib Ji. Sikh Council UK must not put membership numbers in front of beadbi towards Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Sikh Council UK has to pro-actively promote Sikh Rehit Maryada and members of the council have to not only accept the constitution but also actively stop anti gurmat practices happening on Gurdwara property/estate. Satkaar Committee on behalf of the wider UK Sikh Community requests the Sikh Council UK to collectively (members listed in full), or its members individually, release a statement to fully endorse and adhere to the Sri Akal Takht Sahib Ji Sandesh of 2006 which states: Any form of intoxicants (alcohol, drugs etc) and preparation or consumption of foods such as meat, fish and eggs are not permitted on Gurdwara property/estate Guru-ka-Langar should be prepared and observed in accordance to Gurus' maryada (tradition) No person under the influence of intoxicants is allowed inside Gurdwara property Inside the property of the Guru Sahibs, only the recital of Gurbani, katha, kirtan and recounting of the Gurus' history are permitted Buildings bought or constructed using the Daswand (one tenth of earnings) of the Sikh Sangat or Gurdwara donations are solely to be used to be used for Gurmat purposes and the betterment of society Anand Karajs (Sikh wedding ceremonies) etc must be performed in Gurdwaras in accordance to Gurmat and the Panthic accepted Sikh Rehit Maryada There is no permission granted for dancing and singing or any acts which go against the principles of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Please contact us on satkaar@hotmail.co.uk to discuss further, we look forward to hearing a positive response from the Sikh Council UK and its members. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Letter from Guru Hargobind Sahib Gurdwara in Coventry commending the decision made by the Committee of Edinburgh Gurdwara. GHS Gurdwara Cov St Letter.pdf

Press Release 16th November 2010, Edinburgh, UK Edinburgh Gurdwara adhere to Akal Takht Sandesh Meat, Alcohol and Parties no longer allowed on Gurdwara Complex. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! With Guru Ji's blessings, The Sevadars of Satkaar Committee, AKJ UK and Tarna Dal are delighted to announce that Edinburgh Gurdwara's Members and Committees have taken the historic step in agreeing to stop the hall being used for party functions, prohibiting meat, alcohol and dancing on the holy grounds of the Gurdwara Estate (please see letter below). This is a monumental result, that has only come through the Guru's Kirpa (blessing) and the devoted effort of all the sevadars who have joined together to tackle this problem. The Edinburgh Sangat must be congratulated for being the first Gurdwara in this new Satkaar campaign that has begun in the UK, to take the affirmative step of recognising the mistake and rectifying it. In a statement to be released shortly by the Committee of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Edinburgh, they declare, "We would like to pass on our gratitude to the Satkaar Committee, AKJ, Tarna Dal & GNNSJ for all their help in resolving this issue and giving us that final push to eradicate this problem and also appreciate the initial support given to us by the Respect for Guru Granth Sahib Ji campaign Sevadars. On behalf the Edinburgh Sangat we would like to thank all who have supported in this matter there are many nameless individuals who have helped and we are very grateful to each and every one of them. We would also like take this opportunity to encourage all other Gurdwara's who are in similar situations as we were to accept the Akal Tahkts Sandesh and put a stop to the Beadbi." Gurcharan Singh Landa (Pardan) Kuldeep Singh Bhai (General Secretary) On behalf of the sevadars, a humble thank you must also go to the UK Sangat as a whole for supporting the cause, and for becoming involved in this case. As Edinburgh have now set the trend, we are confident that others will also see that these party halls and such immoral acts must be stopped in Gurdwaras or on Gurdwara property. We hope to bring further good news in the coming week to the Sangat about the same issue that is being resolved in Grays. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! The UK Sangat have been in amicable discussions with prominent committee members such as Gurcharn Singh Landa and Weje Singh of Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Edinburgh, Scotland . The discussions have been positive and we hope to have outcome on the issue by the end of today. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

GRAYS - UPDATE 16 November 2010 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Further to the peaceful demonstration at Grays Gurdwara on Saturday 16 October, the UK Sangat resolved to give the Committee of Grays Gurdwara one month to confirm that they will comply with Akal Takhat Sahib's Sandesh, and to confirm that they will NOT allow meat, alcohol or tobacco, or parties to be held, on Gurdwara premises. That one month deadline has lapsed today on Tuesday 16 November. Sadly, the Gurdwara Committee have not provided the specific assurances that the UK Sangat demanded within the one month. All Sikh Gurdwaras have an obligation to abide by the Akal Takhat Sahib issued maryada (protocol). It is an absolute disgrace that the Grays Gurdwara Committee have still not been able to confirm whether they will adhere to Akal Takhat Sahib's Sandesh. However, the Committee have been at pains to point out to Satkaar Sevadaars that the delay has been due to the President of the Committee being in India for a long period of time, and that they will provide the assurances that have been requested by the UK Sangat within the next week (by 23 November 2010). Given this benti (request), Satkaar Sevadaars will update the UK Sangat on any developments in Grays as soon as possible, whilst being mindful that the sentiments of the UK Sangat will not be manipulated by the unfortunate petty local politics within Grays Gurdwara. On a more general note, the campaign to eradicate all UK Gurdwaras of party halls which permit meat, alcohol and tobacco on their premises is extremely active. The UK Sangat is determined to tackle this issue in a peaceful, methodical and co-ordinated way. The UK Sangat is requested to continue with their pro-active efforts of engaging peacefully, courteously and firmly with the relevant Gurdwara committees. Please keep Satkaar Sevadaars informed of local developments. If required, Satkaar Sevadaars will assist local Sangat to escalate and resolve these issues, so that the satkaar and maryada for Sikh principles in all UK Gurdwaras is maintained. In addition to the Grays and Edinburgh situations, the Sangat will shortly be provided details of a third Gurdwara (in Birmingham) which is refusing to comply with Akal Takhat Sahib's Sandesh. Akal Takhat Sahib has also been provided with the full details of the 15 or so Gurdwaras in the UK with party halls. Satkaar Sevadaars are awaiting an instruction from Akal Takhat Sahib regarding these 15 Gurdwara Committees. All such Gurdwaras are requested to renounce as soon as possible their anti-Sikh activities and make their institutions ones which enable our Guru's principles to flourish. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

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Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! We strongly request indviduals not to make this a caste bashing issue. There is no point in standing for Gur Maryada if caste is still to be used as a means of attacking a specific Gurdwara Committee or used to justify anti Sikh activities in a Gurdwara. Satkaar Committee UK have passed to Sri Akal Takht Sahib the details of 16 Gurdwara Committees who violate Gur Maryada and the Sandesh of April 2006. No discrimination has been made against the caste, jathebhandi, background etc of the Committees whose details have been forwarded. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Committee of Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Edinburgh violate Sri Akal Takht Sahib Sandesh. Meat, alcohol and parties allowed on Gurdwara premises. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! It has recently been brought to the attention of the UK Sangat that the Committee of Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Edinburgh, Scotland have made plans to refurbish a hall which is part of the Gurdwara complex. Over the past few years this hall had fallen into disuse, however parties where meat and alcohol were served had been held in this hall. In the past some visiting Sikhs, who happened to be at the Gurdwara when a party was taking place, had observed how the floor of the holy Darbar Sahib would shake due to the excessive bass from the DJ's speakers in the party hall. Unfortunately, the Committee have now decided that the hall should be refurbished to generate an income stream from party bookings and have began to carry out renovation works. At present the Committees' sole purpose of this refurbishment will be to accommodate parties where meat and alcohol will be allowed as well as the promotion of a belligerent atmosphere. Satkaar Committee UK, AKJ UK and Tarna Dal joined together to condemn the plans and wrote to the Committee of the Gurdwara on 19th October 2010 requesting that they agree to cease any refurbishments being done with the intent to make the party hall available again. The hall is currently being used as an extra Langar hall and suggestions were made to the Committee that they carry on using it for that purpose exclusively or any other Gurmat related activities. The Committee were given copies of a specific Hukamnama and Sandesh from Sri Akal Takht Sahib which are binding to all Gurdwaras around the world. The Hukumnama and Sandesh clearly state that meat, alcohol, tobacco, dancing and drugs must never be allowed on the premises of the Gurdwara Estate. Select members of the Committee were also approached on 19th October 2010 and personally handed letters. At this point, the Committee made several hurtful and false accusations, one member claiming that he had been to Bangla Sahib and was served meat there. Once the Sangat questioned him, he conceded that this was not factually correct. Other members of the Committee had on their mobile phones a video of Chatkaa taking place and were asking why this was so dissimilar to what they were doing. The Sangat informed them simply to contact Tarna Dal to clarify their questions and pointed out the letter from the Dal. The Committee held an open meeting at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara to supposedly address this issue, however, it turned into a blame game with more concern on who had informed the "outsiders" about what was going on. Similarly, requests have been made by the Committee during weekly divaans at this Gurdwara asking for information on who called the "outsiders". Despite the Gurdwara Committee being advised to halt their anti Sikh activities, on 6th November reports were received that meat was prepared on the Gurdwara premises. According to an eye witness, there was a party in full swing on that date and meat and alcohol were served. In addition, the eye witness mentioned that the foul stench could be smelt throughout the entire Gurdwara complex. Even more shocking was that the party was held by a member of the Gurdwara committee, the vice Treasurer, Baldev Singh Kusbia. The UK Sangat have now written to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and provided Jathedar Ji Giani Gurbachan Singh with the details of the Gurdwara Committees who are in violation of the Sri Akal Takht Sahib's Sandesh of 2006. We now humbly request that members of the UK Sangat, other Parbahandak Committees and Sikh Leaders to contact this Committee in a respectful fashion to help them understand their obligation to Sri Akal Takht Sahib. President - Gurcharn Singh Landa 07854 802429 General Secretary - Kuldip Singh Bhai - 07531 253473 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Admin Note: Everyone is allowed to express their opinions, but it is our humble benti that you keep your comments civilised and conforming to the Sikhsangat posting rules. Any attempts to turn this into Jatha-bashing, caste, or race related issue will not be tolerated and appropriate action WILL be taken against repeating offenders. Dhanvaad!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Please find below an article published in this weeks local Grays newspaper. http://www.yourthurrock.com/2010/10/27/demonstrations-outside-grays-sikh-temple/ Demonstrations outside Grays Sikh temple OVER 250 Sikh demonstrators from across the UK demonstrated outside the Grays Sikh temple in Maidstone Road in an attempt to prevent meat and alcohol from being served at a wedding. The group confronted the temple committee who were adamant that the party would go ahead. The demonstrators went into the hall to prevent the ceremony. Private talks over the contravention, known as Beadbi took place. A spokesperson for the demonstrators said: “The committee said that although they agree with them, they were in no position to take a decision as their local community had approved the usage of the party hall. After no resolution being reached, the Grays Gurdwara committee and local community have been given one month to confirm whether they will implement the ruling of no alcohol and meat. The group, although peaceful threatened to take away a number of religious symbols next time The whole peaceful protest was filmed by Sikh TV and Sikh Channel. Members of the Sikh committee were contacted but did not submit a statement.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Please find below the front page and article in this weeks Punjab Times. The publication can be downloaded on http://www.punjabtimes.co.uk/ for this week only. Des Pardes has also covered the Grays issue and beadbi being carried out by other Gurdwara committees on page 8 of this weeks publication.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Many thanks to the Sikh Channel for dedicating air space to the Grays Beadbi issue last night. We will confirm when Sikh TV are planning to schedule their programme on the Grays issues. There is still a live show to be scheduled some time in the next few days on the Sikh Channel, which will address the initiative taken by the UK Sangat to abolish the anti-Sikh practice of meat, alcohol, tobacco and belligerent parties being allowed within some UK Gurdwara buildings and associated Community halls. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! UPDATE. Please find enclosed the letter sent to Sangat, Trustees and Committee of Grays Gurdwara (Sikh Temple)dated 19 October 2010 communicating the decision made by the UK Sangat on 16 October 2010 in relation to the proposed Grays Beadbi. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! UPDATE Sikh Channel will now air a 1 hour programme showing the full day's events at 7pm Wednesday 20 October 2010. There will also be a LIVE discussion programme to be scheduled in the next few days. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Sikh Channel will air a LIVE show at xxxx on xxxxxxxxxx regarding the Grays beadbi. Members of the UK Sangat will discuss the foundations of a new reform movement to abolish the anti-Sikh practice of party halls within Gurdwara Estates. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh! SIKH CHANNEL UPDATE. LIVE SHOW RESCHEDULED TO ANOTHER DAY. THERE WILL STILL BE A PROGRAMME AT 7PM WEDNESDAY 20 OCT SHOWING THE DAY'S EVENTS