Punjab Assembly Members Address Sikh Concerns at Akal Takht
In a significant gathering, all 78 Sikh members of the Punjab Assembly met at the Akal Takht to discuss a controversial law affecting Sikh sentiments. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other legislators agreed to amend the law after objections were raised regarding its passage without proper consultation with Sikh religious authorities. The Akal Takht, the highest religious authority for Sikhs, emphasized the need for adherence to Sikh traditions in legislative matters. This article delves into the details of the law, the reasons for the dispute, and the implications for the Sikh community.
| Jun 29, 2026, 16:25 IST
Sikh Legislators Meet at Akal Takht
All 78 Sikh representatives from the Punjab Assembly, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, his Sikh cabinet colleagues, and Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, gathered on Monday in front of the Akal Takht, the highest religious authority for Sikhs, located in Amritsar. This meeting was prompted by a law passed two months prior. By the end of the session, the attending legislators agreed to amend the law in accordance with Sikh sentiments, while the Akal Takht granted the Punjab government a month to address a formal list of objections. This article outlines the law's provisions, the reasons behind the dispute with Sikh religious leaders, and the decisions made when the matter reached the Akal Takht.
Why a Religious Hearing?
Why a Religious Hearing?
The Akal Takht is not a governmental body but the supreme religious authority within Sikhism, situated within the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. Its head, currently Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, along with four other senior religious leaders known as 'Panj Singh Sahibaan', can summon any Sikh and issue religious edicts that must be followed. Failure to comply can result in being declared 'Tankhaiya' (guilty of violating religious rules). The recent controversy revolves around the 'Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026', which modifies the original 2008 law aimed at protecting the Sikh holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, from disrespect.
Background of the Dispute with Sikh Leaders
Background of the Dispute with Sikh Leaders
The Akal Takht has no objections to penalties; however, they argue that this law was created and passed without consulting the Akal Takht, SGPC, or the broader Sikh community, which is necessary for any legislation concerning Guru Granth Sahib. Bagicha Singh, in charge of the Akal Takht secretariat, stated that official notices were sent to all Sikh legislators and ministers via email and WhatsApp on June 17 and 18, with a separate notification sent to Speaker Sandhwan on June 23. Gargaj highlighted specific concerns, including the use of the term 'saroop' instead of 'bir' for copies of the religious scripture. He emphasized that the assembly has no authority to decide on matters related to Sikh terminology, which should solely be determined by the Akal Takht. Speaking to reporters before the proceedings on Monday, he accused the AAP government of intervening between the Guru and the Sikh community. Gargaj asserted that the law's provisions treat the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikh sentiments, and concerns related to the Guru Sahib as 'accused individuals' within a legal framework, indicating direct government interference in Sikh affairs.