Nanded: The management of Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazoor Sahib has strongly opposed the Maharashtra government’s proposal to repeal the Nanded Sikh Gurdwara Sachkhand Sri Hazoor Abchalnagar Sahib Act, 1956 and replace it with a new law, issuing a formal Gurmatta against the move.
The decision was taken during a high-level gathering attended by the Panj Piaras and representatives of various Sikh religious organisations. Following detailed deliberations, a unanimous resolution was passed demanding that the original 1956 Act be retained.
The Gurmatta was formally read out by Singh Sahib Giani Ram Singh in the presence of Takht Jathedar Giani Kulwant Singh. Senior functionaries associated with the Takht described the proposed legislation as an attempt to weaken the established traditions and autonomy of Hazoor Sahib.
According to the Gurmatta, the existing administrative framework of Takht Hazoor Sahib is based on principles laid down by Sikh scholars and the vision of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It stated that the proposed law could undermine these foundations and alter the traditional system of governance at the Takht.
The resolution further expressed concern that the Maharashtra government’s move could lead to increased interference in the affairs of the Takht and its institutions.
A former senior office-bearer associated with the shrine said there is a clear apprehension that the proposed legislation is driven by vested interests and could pave the way for government intervention in matters traditionally managed by the Sikh community.
The Maharashtra government recently approved a proposal to replace the 1956 Act with a new law governing the administration of Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazoor Sahib, a move that has drawn criticism from several Sikh organisations and political leaders across the country.
