Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Strongly Denounces Maharashtra Government’s Amendment to Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Board Act

In a significant and unprecedented move, Giani Raghbir Singh, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has vehemently criticized the Maharashtra Government for unilaterally amending the Act governing the management board of Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib, Nanded. The amendment, notably a reduction in the number of members nominated by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), is perceived as a direct interference in Sikh religious affairs.

In an official statement, Giani Raghbir Singh emphasized the Sikh community’s unwavering stand against government intrusion into the sacred arrangements of their holy shrines. He has instructed the SGPC to engage in immediate discussions with the Maharashtra Government to demand the reversal of the decision, deeming it detrimental to the Sikh community.

Expressing deep concern, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami decried the government’s action to diminish the representation of Sikh organizations in the Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Nanded Gurdwara Board. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Advocate Dhami strongly objected to the arbitrary amendment and urged the Chief Minister to halt any actions that increase government influence in managing Sikh Gurdwaras. He stressed the need to adhere to the 1956 Act related to the Shri Hazur Sahib Gurdwara Board, ensuring the continued participation of representatives of Sikh organizations in the Nanded Gurdwara Board.

The Sikh community stands united in safeguarding the sanctity of its religious institutions and calls for a respectful resolution through dialogue.