Latest news with #HaryanaSikhGurdwaraManagementCommittee
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
HSGMC demands rollback of amendments giving more teeth to judicial commission
Days after the Haryana cabinet approved amendments to the Haryana Sikh Gurdwaras (Management) Act, the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) has strongly opposed the changes, calling them a violation of the rights of elected members. The amendments were approved by the state cabinet on August 1 in a meeting chaired by Saini. Under the current law, Section 17(2)(c) empowers HSGMC to remove its own members with a two-thirds majority. However, the proposed amendment would transfer this authority to the Gurdwara Judicial Commission. At a general house meeting in Kurukshetra on Friday, attended by 27 members, HSGMC president Jagdish Singh Jhinda, general secretary Harjeet Singh, joint secretary Balwinder Singh Kangthali, executive member Kuldeep Singh Multani and others condemned the move and demanded the government withdraw the amendments before they are tabled in the upcoming monsoon session of the assembly. Elected member from Karnal's Assandh Jhinda said the changes were made without consulting the house, which is an 'insult to the elected members.' He alleged that the government was attempting to 'unfairly control' gurdwara management, adding, 'This will not be tolerated under any circumstances.' Speaking to Hindustan Times, Jhinda clarified, 'Our protest is not against one particular amendment but against the entire process of imposing changes without discussion. The government should have at least consulted the executive body before moving forward.' The HSGMC has sought a meeting with chief minister Nayab Singh Saini to present its concerns. The amendments were approved by the state cabinet on August 1 in a meeting chaired by Saini. A government spokesperson said the changes aim to strengthen the legal framework for gurdwara management, enhance transparency, ensure judicial oversight, and provide a structured system for managing properties. The government maintains that the amendments will improve transparency and oversight, but the HSGMC insists they undermine the democratic mandate of its elected representatives. BOX Key changes include Omission of Section 17(2)(c), transferring the power to remove committee members to the Judicial Commission under Section 46. Replacement of Sections 44 and 45, granting the commission sole authority to resolve disputes over voter eligibility, disqualifications, service matters, and committee appointments. Revision of Section 46, empowering the Commission to decide disputes over gurdwara property, funds, and internal conflicts, and to suspend or remove members for misconduct. The Commission may take suo moto action in cases involving misuse of gurdwara property or funds, issue temporary injunctions to protect assets, and exercise powers equivalent to a civil court. New Sections 46A to 46N establish its expanded powers, bar civil court jurisdiction in such matters, and protect Commission members acting in good faith.
Time of India
26-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Sikh candidate stopped from entering CET centre wearing kada let in after intervention
Hisar: An Amritdhari Sikh candidate was reportedly stopped briefly by security personnel at the entrance of a CET centre in Sector 16-17 here because of his 'kada', one of the five articles of faith (Panj Kakars) worn by initiated Sikhs. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Though Milanveer Singh was allowed to carry his 'kirpan', he was initially barred from entering the centre wearing the 'kada'. He then contacted Sardar Sukhsagar Singh, former head of Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha and a former member of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee. On receiving the call, Sukhsagar promptly arrived at the exam centre and informed the police officers that Amritdhari Sikh candidates are legally allowed to appear in exams with all five religious articles, including the kada, according to govt guidelines. Despite this, the security personnel remained adamant and refused him entry. To escalate the matter, Sukhsagar dialled emergency helpline 112. When additional police arrived, he asserted that preventing the Sikh youth from wearing the 'kada' was a violation of constitutional rights and religious freedom. He also attempted to contact the SHO of Civil Lines police station, but his call reportedly went unanswered. The police then consulted a senior officer on the phone and allowed him to speak with Sukhsagar. However, the officer also denied permission to wear the 'kada' during the exam. In protest, Sukhsagar began preparing to stage a sit-in outside the exam centre. Following further consultation with senior officers, the police finally allowed the youth, Milanveer, to appear for the exam wearing both his 'kada' and 'kirpan'. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Speaking to the media, Sukhsagar emphasised that initiated Sikhs have a constitutional right to wear their five symbols, just as married Hindu women have the right to wear a mangalsutra during exams. He criticised the police personnel for their lack of awareness and failure to follow official protocols, which caused unnecessary stress to the student and potentially affected his exam performance. Photo caption: The head of Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha, Sukhsagar Singh, speaks with police personnel at the exam centre
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
State-level nagar kirtans must have permission from Sri Akal Takht Sahib: HSGMC chief Jhinda
President of HSGMC, Jagdish Singh Jhinda, has urged that prior approval must be sought from Akal Takht Sahib before organizing any state-level nagar kirtan. KURUKSHETRA: President of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), Jagdish Singh Jhinda, has urged that prior approval must be sought from Akal Takht Sahib before organizing any state-level nagar kirtan (Sikh religious procession). He emphasized that this measure is necessary to preserve Sikh traditions and to prevent the misuse of religious sentiments and resources for personal or political gains. Speaking to the media at the HSGMC's headquarters in Kurukshetra, Jhinda expressed deep concern over the growing trend of organizing separate and unauthorized nagar kirtans under the pretext of celebrating and observing Sikh religious events. 'The Sikh Panth has always maintained a strong tradition of holding nagar kirtans on historical occasions, but today these are being manipulated for economic and political benefits,' he said. 'This is not only disrespectful but also a misuse of the Guru's wealth and the sentiments of the Sikh Sangat.' To address this, Jhinda said he has sent an official letter to Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, Amritsar. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like So sánh mức trượt giá: Hợp đồng tương lai (CFD) Bitcoin vs Ethereum IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo In the letter, they have appealed for a special joint meeting of key Sikh bodies, including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), and other Sikh intellectuals and institutions. The goal of the meeting would be to hold a serious deliberation on the matter and then issue clear directives under the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. Jhinda further stated that the letter requests Akal Takht Sahib to issue a Panthic directive requiring all Sikh management bodies and institutions to seek prior permission before organizing any state-level nagar kirtan. Moreover, he recommended that only one official Nagar Kirtan should be held at the state level for major events such as Gurpurbs or martyrdom anniversaries, where the entire Sikh community comes together under a single Nishan Sahib (Sikh flag), in the spirit of 'One Panth, One Granth. ' No parallel nagar kirtan should be allowed by any other group. He concluded by stating that such a directive from Akal Takht Sahib would uphold Guru Maryada (discipline), Panthic unity, and mutual respect and would prevent the exploitation of Sikh resources and emotions for personal motives.
The Print
24-06-2025
- Politics
- The Print
How move to mark 50th Emergency anniversary as ‘Black Day' has exposed cracks in Haryana Gurdwara panel
Now, the 'Black Day' decision spearheaded by newly elected HSGMC President Jagdish Singh Jhinda has ignited a fierce debate within the committee, exposing deep-seated factionalism and raising questions over adherence to governing principles under the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Act, 2014. Earlier this year, the 19 January HSGMC election, followed by the 13 May oath-taking of 49 members, completed the constitution of the body. New Delhi: The newly constituted Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) is grappling with internal discord over a decision to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1975 Emergency imposed on 25 June by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as 'Black Day' on 26 June. Jagdish Singh Jhinda, a prominent Sikh leader, has defended the decision to mark 'Black Day', arguing it is a necessary reminder of the 'murder of democracy' back during the Emergency when the Centre had imprisoned Opposition leaders and curtailed civil liberties. He also emphasised the historical significance of the Emergency, stating, 'Loktantra ki hatya ke din ko yaad rakhna zaroori hai. (It is essential to remember the day democracy was throttled)'. To honour those who suffered during the Emergency, the HSGMC has plans to felicitate ex-parliamentarians, social workers, others jailed during the Emergency, and their families in case the individuals are deceased. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Haryana's former CM Manohar Lal Khattar and current CM Nayab Singh Saini are among the high-profile political figures the committee has invited. The HSGMC has also scheduled an Akhand Paath Sahib, a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, on 24 June at the historic Gurdwara Patshahi Chhevin in Kurukshetra, with similar programmes planned across gurdwaras in Haryana. The date, 26 June, was chosen to accommodate the HSGMC general house meeting on 25 June—the 50th anniversary of the Emergency. Also Read: 'EVMs can be hacked'. Key panthic group in Haryana gurdwara committee poll fray calls for ballot voting Tribute to Sikh resistance against oppression Jhinda has framed the event as a tribute to the Sikh values of resistance against oppression, invoking the teachings of Guru Hargobind Sahib and Guru Nanak Dev Ji to justify the initiative. Jhinda told The Print Tuesday, 'Those opposing this event should explain why we celebrate the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Gobind Singh's Sahibzaades (sons), who Aurangzeb martyred to save his throne. This is about standing against injustice.' Quoting Guru Hargobind Sahib, Jhinda said, 'Raaj bina nahi dharam chale hai (Religion can't go without politics),' adding that the event was in line with Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 'Sarbat da bhala (the welfare of all humanity)' as the Emergency worked against the principle of welfare of all. Under BJP's pressure, says Akal Panthak Morcha However, the decision HAS met with strong resistance from a significant faction within the HSGMC—particularly from members aligned with the Akal Panthak Morcha, led by Baldev Singh Kaimpuri and Prakash Singh Sahuwala. Sahuwala, a committee member from Sirsa, revealed that 20 out of the 49 HSGMC members, who owe allegiance to the Akal Panthak Morcha, have vowed to boycott the June 26 event. 'He (Jhinda) is holding this event under pressure from the BJP government in Haryana. He has not sought approval of his decision from the members and has unilaterally announced his event. None of our 20 members is going to attend this event,' he said. A senior Akal Panthak Morcha member, speaking anonymously, alleged that the event violated the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Act, 2014, which prohibited the use of committee funds for political purposes. 'No resolutions were passed in any committee meeting to hold this event. It is a unilateral decision by Jhinda,' the member stated, adding that their faction planned to seek legal recourse through the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Judicial Commission, headed by Justice Darshan Singh (retd), after 26 June if the event proceeds. In retaliation, Jhinda has branded his detractors as aligned with the Opposition, calling them 'Congress pichh-laggus (Congress stooges)', accusing them of undermining the HSGMC's autonomy and Sikh principles. 'Those who oppose this event are working on the directions of the Congress,' Jhinda told The Print. This exchange of accusations has deepened the rift within the HSGMC. Also Read: Weeks after CM Khattar brokers peace, factional war reignites in Haryana gurdwara body Manifestation of ongoing power struggle Since the HSGMC constitution, the internal conflict, a manifestation of ongoing power struggles, has been more intense. The HSGMC consists of 49 members: 40 elected members (elected in January 2025) and nine co‑opted (nominated) members, appointed in line with the HSGMC Act, 2014. The election saw 40 members directly elected by the Sikh community: 22 Independents, nine of them from Jhinda's Panthak Dal; six from the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)-backed Haryana Sikh Panthak Dal; and three from Didar Singh Nalvi's Sikh Samaj Sanstha. Subsequently, some Independents aligned with the Akal Panthak Morcha, and they, along with the six Sikh Panthak Dal members, claimed a majority, with 20 members. The nomination of the nine co-opted members, including controversial figure Baljit Singh Daduwal, tilted the balance in favour of Jhinda, who now enjoys the support of 29 members, including the nine the state government co-opted and owing allegiance to the state BJP government. The HSGMC constitution is the culmination of a decades-long struggle by Haryana's Sikh community for autonomy over their gurdwaras. Over the years preceding 2014, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee in Amritsar, Punjab, managed the gurdwaras in Haryana. The demand for a separate body gained momentum in the early 2000s, with figures such as Jagdish Singh Jhinda and Didar Singh Nalvi leading the movement, arguing that Haryana's Sikh community needed independent control to address local, religious, and administrative needs. The movement faced significant resistance from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Punjab-based Sikh organisations, both of which viewed a separate body as a challenge to their authority. In 2014, under the then-Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, the Haryana government enacted the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Act, establishing the HSGMC, along with associated health and educational institutes in the state, to manage gurdwaras. An ad-hoc committee that Jhinda led from 2014 to 2020 oversaw the operations till the conduct of a formal election. The SGPC challenged the constitutional validity of the Act. However, in September 2022, the Supreme Court upheld the Act, paving the way for the HSGMC's formal establishment. (Edited by Madhurita Goswami) Also Read: A Haryana village is fighting ASI. A Mahabharata-era excavation is at stake
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Gurdwara bodies of Haryana and Punjab clash over control of Miri Piri group of institutions
1 2 3 Chandigarh: Within days of establishing the elected body, tensions have emerged between the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee manned trust, which manages the Miri-Piri group of institutions, including the medical college at Kurukshetra. The war of words between the two Sikh bodies intensified after the executive body of the HSGMC, led by president Jagdish Singh Jhinda, former president Baljit Singh Daduwal, and other executive members, visited the medical college site in Shahabad Markanda. This was followed by a meeting with the Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini. During their visit to the medical college, Jhinda and Baljit Singh Daduwal asked the local management to hand over control to the HSGMC as the premises were established on the land of Gurdwara Mastgarh Sahib. "During their tenure, the SGPC created a private trust and raised the building of the said medical college on the land owned by Gurdwara Sahib. Now, with the implementation of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Act 2014, all the gurughars are under the control of the HSGMC. According to the act, the movable and immovable assets on gurughars and their land are now under the control of the HSGMC. Since the Badal family created a family trust to manage this institute, we have termed this as illegal and initiated the process to acquire the same in accordance with the provisions of the Act," said Baljit Singh Daduwal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Beyond Text Generation: An AI Tool That Helps You Write Better Grammarly Install Now Undo "The college has 100 medical seats, but no infrastructure. Once we manage the affairs, we shall put everything in place systematically. We have brought this to the notice of the CM as well as the govt and have sought their support," said Daduwal. When contacted, Sukhminder Singh, secretary of the trust managing the Miri Piri group of institutions, categorically dismissed the claims of the HSGMC. "Firstly, the issue related to this institution is under litigation and the court has imposed a stay. They can download the orders from the website and get those vetted by the govt as well as their legal team. Let them get the stay vacated and take directions from the court," said Sukhminder Singh. MSID:: 121695802 413 |
