SGPC Passes Key Resolutions in Amritsar Budget Session
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) convened its budget session in Amritsar on Saturday, passing several significant resolutions addressing critical issues affecting the Sikh community. The session highlighted growing concerns over religious identity, governance, and technological challenges.
Concerns Over Sikh Identity Dilution
In a major resolution, the SGPC voiced serious apprehension about ongoing attempts to dilute the distinct and fundamental identity of Sikhs. The committee called upon Sikh institutions, scholars, and the global Sikh community to unite and strongly oppose any such efforts. The resolution emphasized that Sikhism is an independent religion with its own history, philosophy, values, traditions, and code of conduct. It stated that any attempt to undermine this unique identity constitutes a direct challenge to its sanctity and ideals.
Criticism of Punjab Government's Approach
Another key resolution raised concerns over the Punjab government's handling of the 'Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scriptures Bill, 2025' and statements made by the chief minister. The SGPC argued that these actions have created confusion within the Sikh community. Additionally, the resolution expressed serious concern over increasing incidents of sacrilege of the Guru Granth Sahib. The SGPC criticized successive governments for politicizing the issue without ensuring justice, noting that many cases remain unresolved and the accused have not received exemplary punishment. It urged the government to respect Sikh sentiments, share all relevant information with the SGPC, and refrain from making any amendments to the 'Jagat Jyoti Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008'.
AI Misuse and Religious Sentiments
The SGPC also addressed the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning against the spread of objectionable content that hurts Sikh religious sentiments. The committee urged the Government of India to formulate a strict policy and ensure prompt action against offenders to prevent such incidents.
Issues with Sikh Prisoners and Student Rights
A resolution condemned the alleged indifferent and discriminatory approach of the central and state governments regarding the release of Sikh prisoners who have been lodged in jails for decades. Furthermore, the SGPC criticized incidents in various states where Sikh students were allegedly forced to remove kakars (Sikh symbols) during examinations, calling for strict action against those responsible.
Concerns Over Police Encounters and Security
The SGPC expressed concern over the rising trend of police encounters involving youth in Punjab, stating that such incidents create fear and insecurity in society. It demanded transparency and fair investigations to ensure justice in these cases.
Call for Reopening of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor
A separate resolution called for the immediate reopening of the corridor to Gurdwara Sri Kartarpur Sahib. The SGPC noted that its closure due to tensions between India and Pakistan has deeply hurt the religious sentiments of Sikh devotees, urging diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue.
Support for Sikhs Abroad
The SGPC further urged the Government of India to take effective steps to address issues faced by Sikhs living abroad, ensuring protection of their religious rights and freedom to practise their faith. It also called for diplomatic efforts to prevent racial discrimination and violence against Sikhs overseas, highlighting the need for global solidarity and action.
