Global Sikh Council calls for amendment to Sikh Gurdwaras Act to remove govt control over SGPC
_Akal Takht Sahib should be autonomous – demands GSC_
Chandigarh, September 5, 2024 (WISHAVWARTA):– The Global Sikh Council (GSC) has urged the prompt amendment of the Sikh Gurdwaras Act of 1925, citing its numerous loopholes that enable government intervention in the administration of gurdwaras and delay general elections to constitute the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
In a press release Dr. Kanwaljit Kaur, President of the GSC highlighted that while the original intent of this act was commendable, aiming to return control of gurdwaras to practicing Sikhs from non-Sikh control but the legislation lacks provisions requiring the union government to consult the SGPC before making any amendments. The GSC asserts that the act should be revised to mandate government consultation with the SGPC prior to any amendments.
The GSC, emphasized that Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the supreme authority of the Sikhs since the 17th century, is currently placed under the control, supervision, and management of the SGPC by section 85(1) of the Act. Suggesting necessary reforms in this section Dr. Kaur demanded that Sri Akal Takht Sahib be removed from section 85(1) allowing it to regain its independence and autonomy as it had prior to the Act’s implementation. She further proposed that rules be established to ensure a separate budget for Sri Akal Takht Sahib and that it be empowered to choose its own employees, including religious experts. Additionally, she advocated for the formation of an independent panel to conduct a transparent selection process for appointing the most qualified Jathedars.
Moreover, Dr. Kaur recommended that Takht Keshgarh Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Talwandi Sabo also be excluded from the above said Section thus removing them from government control.
The GSC also called for amendments to empower the Chief Commissioner of Gurdwara Elections. Under the current legislation, the authority to call and conduct SGPC elections resides with the Central Government. The GSC suggested that this power be transferred to the Gurdwara Elections Commissioner, allowing for the timely conduct of general elections as well as holding by-elections for vacant seats in a time bound manner.
Furthermore, the GSC proposed an amendment to section 51 of the said Act, making it mandatory for SGPC elections to be conducted before the end of the existing Board’s term or within six months of its completion.
The Global Sikh Council has called on the SGPC to take decisive steps towards implementing these reforms by presenting the requisite proposals to the State and Central Governments. The Council emphasized that the Sikh Gurdwaras should be under the control and regulation of Sikhs, as provided by Article 26 of the Constitution of India, in a manner similar to how mosques and churches are being managed by their respective religious communities without government intervention.
