SGPC Delegation Meets Punjab Governor, Seeks Nullification of Sikh Gurdwaras Bill

A delegation from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) met with Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Thursday to request the nullification of the Sikh Gurdwaras (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The bill was recently passed by the state assembly and aims to ensure free-to-air telecast of Gurbani, the holy scriptures of Sikhism.

SGPC Chief Harjinder Singh Dhami accused the state government, particularly the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, of interfering in Sikh affairs and using the issue for political gain. Dhami claimed that the intention behind the bill was to weaken the SGPC, but the Sikh community is determined to prevent this from happening.

Dhami further stated that they had explained in detail to the governor about the alleged unconstitutional nature of the bill. The delegation presented a memorandum to the governor, asserting that the government’s interference in the Sikh Gurdwaras Act, 1925 is against the constitution and should not be allowed.

The bill’s proponents, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, argue that it is necessary to end the exclusive rights of a particular channel (PTC) owned by the Shiromani Akali Dal’s Badal family to broadcast Gurbani. They claim that the bill aims to ensure the freedom of telecasting sacred Gurbani from undue control.

The governor has assured the SGPC delegation that he will examine the matter in accordance with the constitution.

Picture courtsey SGPC