The caretakers of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded have issued a gurmata (collective religious edict) firmly rejecting the Maharashtra government's proposal to repeal the Nanded Sikh Gurdwara Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Act, 1956, and replace it with a new law. The edict, read out by Singh Sahib Giani Ram Singh in the presence of Takht Jathedar Giani Kulwant Singh, calls for the retention of the original Act, asserting that any change would undermine the established traditions of the Takht.
Congregation Unanimously Opposes New Legislation
The decision was reached after a high-level congregation involving the Panj Pyare (the Guru's five beloved ones), senior clergy, and representatives of various Sikh religious bodies. Following deliberations, a unanimous resolution was adopted, firmly opposing the state's move. According to a senior functionary associated with the Takht, the proposed legislation is an attempt to dilute the established traditions of the Takht.
The gurmata emphasizes that the existing administrative framework of Hazur Sahib is rooted in principles laid down by Sikh scholars and guided by the vision of Guru Gobind Singh. The proposed legislation risks undermining these foundations, the edict states. “There is a clear apprehension that the state’s fresh move is driven by vested interests and making interference in Takht affairs,” a former senior functionary observed.
Maharashtra Cabinet's Proposal and Background
The Maharashtra Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, recently approved a proposal to repeal the seven-decade-old Act and introduce a new law titled “Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Gurdwara Act.” The proposed legislation is slated to be tabled in the ongoing Vidhan Sabha session. Once passed, it will pave the way for a new administrative framework governing the gurdwara board, including revised rules for elections, management, and by-laws.
The push for a fresh law is based on recommendations by a state-appointed committee, which has suggested structural changes in governance. This move has triggered strong reactions across Sikh institutions, with major panthic bodies—including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takht—voicing firm opposition against the government’s repeated attempts to amend the existing law to penetrate and establish its dominance.
Previous Attempts and Opposition
Earlier, in February 2024, the Maharashtra government made an amendment to enable direct nomination of 12 of 17 members of the board. This reduced the SGPC's nomination and abolished the membership of the Chief Khalsa Diwan, Hazuri Sachkhand Diwan, and Sikh MPs. Following a massive protest by the SGPC and other local Sikh organizations, the government was compelled to roll back the amendment. Similar attempts were made in 2018 and 2019 but were foiled.
Religious bodies have described the move as a direct intrusion into the religious autonomy of one of Sikhism’s five Takhts and have warned against any attempt to alter its maryada (religious code) or administrative independence.
