Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal has requested Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to maintain the independence of the Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Board and withdraw a proposed law that aims to appoint government representatives to the board. Badal expressed concern that changes were being made without consulting the Sikh community, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), or the Hazuri Sachkhand Diwan, potentially jeopardizing the board’s autonomy. She emphasized the importance of not unilaterally altering decisions affecting the code of conduct, management, and religious freedom of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib.
Badal highlighted that in February 2024, the Maharashtra government had amended the Act governing the shrine to allow direct government nominations for 12 out of 17 board members, reducing the representation of SGPC and eliminating Chief Khalsa Diwan and Hazuri Sachkhand Diwan’s roles. Despite the withdrawal of this amendment due to protests, there are concerns about similar changes being proposed in the new Act. Badal urged the Chief Minister to respect Sikh traditions and the community’s ability to manage their religious affairs, citing a ‘gurmata’ issued by the Takht’s management against the government’s decision.
