After detailed deliberations, the gathering unanimously adopted a resolution demanding the continuation of the original 1956 Act. The collective religious decree was formally read out by Singh Sahib Giani Ram Singh in the presence of Takht Jathedar Giani Kulwant Singh. A senior official associated with the Takht stated that the proposed changes were perceived as an attempt to weaken established traditions governing the institution.
The resolution emphasized that the existing administrative structure of the shrine is rooted in principles established by Sikh scholars and the ideology of Guru Gobind Singh. Leaders involved in the deliberations argued that the proposed legislation risked undermining these foundational principles. Reflecting internal sentiment within the shrine administration, a former senior official alleged that the government’s initiative appeared to be driven by private interests and constituted interference in the affairs of the Takht.
The controversy follows approval by the Maharashtra Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, for repealing the seven-decade-old law and introducing a new statute titled the Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchal Nagar Sahib Gurdwara Act. The proposed legislation is expected to be presented in the ongoing session of the state legislature. Once enacted, it would establish a revised administrative framework for the gurdwara board, including changes to election procedures, management structures, and governing regulations.
The proposed legal overhaul is based on recommendations of a state-appointed committee that suggested structural reforms in the administration of the board. However, the initiative has triggered sharp opposition from prominent Sikh institutions. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and the Akal Takht have strongly opposed repeated governmental attempts to amend the law and expand administrative influence over the religious institution.
These organizations have described the move as a direct intrusion into the religious autonomy of one of Sikhism’s five Takhts, warning against any attempt to alter its religious code of conduct or administrative independence. Earlier, in February 2024, the Maharashtra Government had amended the framework to allow direct nomination of 12 out of 17 board members. It also reduced the role of nominations by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and removed representation from the Chief Khalsa Diwan, Hazuri Sachkhand Diwan, and Sikh Members of Parliament. Following strong opposition from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and other Sikh organizations, the amendment was later withdrawn.
Similar attempts were made in 2018 and 2019 but were successfully resisted.
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