The Sikh clergy has once again called upon the Punjab government to revise the new anti-sacrilege legislation, aligning it with Sikh sentiments and urging the state to abandon its inflexible position. This appeal followed a special meeting held on Tuesday in Amritsar, where the Golden Temple head granthi convened with the Singh Sahibans, the Akal Takht head granthi, and the additional head granthi.
Meeting Highlights
According to a statement released after the meeting, the clergy conveyed to the Chief Minister that it is objectionable to bring the Sikh community's revered institutions, Granthi Singhs, gurdwara committees, and congregations under the legal framework concerning matters related to maryada, the Sikh code of religious conduct. The Sikh high priests demanded that the Chief Minister take immediate steps to remove provisions in the law that negatively impact the granthi community, Sikh institutions, gurdwara committees, and Sikh congregations, the release stated.
Key Demands
- Amend the anti-sacrilege law to respect Sikh religious sentiments.
- Exempt Granthi Singhs, gurdwara committees, and congregations from legal provisions related to maryada.
- Remove clauses that adversely affect the granthi community and Sikh institutions.
The clergy emphasized that the current law undermines the autonomy of Sikh religious bodies and called for a more sensitive approach. This is not the first time the Sikh high priests have raised objections; they have consistently pressed for changes since the law was enacted. The Punjab government has yet to respond formally to these renewed demands.
