SAD President Criticizes Maharashtra Government's Proposal
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal on June 25, 2026, strongly condemned the Maharashtra government's decision to repeal the Nanded Sikh Gurdwara Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Act, 1956, and replace it with a new law. In a post on X, he stated that the sacred Takht, sanctified by Guru Gobind Singh, belongs to the Sikh panth, and no government has the right to impose control over it.
Gurmata Rejects New Legislation
Earlier, the day caretakers of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib issued a gurmata (collective religious edict) rejecting the Maharashtra government's proposal. The gurmata followed a high-level congregation involving the Panj Pyare (the Guru's five beloved ones), senior clergy, and representatives of various Sikh religious bodies. A unanimous resolution was adopted, firmly calling for the retention of the original 1956 Act. The gurmata, considered a binding collective decision in the name of the Guru, was formally read out by Singh Sahib Giani Ram Singh in the presence of Takht Jathedar Giani Kulwant Singh.
Maharashtra Cabinet's Decision
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.
Widespread Opposition from Sikh Bodies
The 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. Sukhbir Singh Badal urged the Maharashtra government and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to immediately withdraw the proposal and not take any step that conflicts with the sentiments of the Sikh Sangat.
