CHANDIGARH: The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Monday called on both the Centre and state governments to immediately stop what it described as growing attempts to interfere in Sikh religious affairs and to assume control of key Sikh institutions. The party expressed concern over alleged efforts to influence the management of historic shrines, including the revered Takhats of Huzoor Sahib and Patna Sahib.
A resolution adopted during a special meeting of the SAD Core Committee criticised actions such as the removal of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) from Sikh Sangat’s control and the creation of a separate gurdwara body in Haryana, calling them deeply disrespectful. The resolution said such moves contradict the legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, who made the ultimate sacrifice to resist state intrusion in religious matters and uphold freedom of faith.
The party further stated that it was “ironic and disturbing” that governments at the Centre, as well as in Maharashtra, Bihar and Haryana, were allegedly repeating forms of interference that Guru Tegh Bahadur opposed centuries ago. Drawing a parallel, the resolution warned against what it termed an “Aurangzeb-like mindset” in contemporary governance.
The meeting, held at the party headquarters, was chaired by SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal.