Jalandhar, June 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The International Sikh Council (ISC) has strongly condemned the Maharashtra Government’s amendments to the law governing the administration of Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib, Nanded, describing the move as a direct interference in the internal religious affairs of the Sikh community.
The issue was discussed at a meeting of the International Sikh Council, where members unanimously criticized the legislative changes and expressed concern over what they termed an encroachment on the autonomy of Sikh religious institutions.
Addressing the media after the meeting, ISC leaders Mandeep Singh Mithu and Advocate Manpreet Singh Gaba said Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is one of Sikhism’s five Takhts, and any governmental interference in its administration, religious traditions or management is unacceptable.
They alleged that the amendments amount to a direct assault on the religious freedom of Sikhs and the autonomous functioning of Sikh institutions.
The leaders further argued that the Constitution of India guarantees every religious community the right to manage its own religious affairs and institutions. They maintained that governmental intervention in the administration of religious bodies raises serious concerns not only for the Sikh community but also for the country’s constitutional framework and the principle of religious freedom.
The International Sikh Council urged the Maharashtra Government to immediately withdraw the amendments and refrain from implementing any new legal provisions concerning Takht Sri Hazur Sahib without first holding consultations with Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Sikh organizations across the world.
Calling for Panthic unity, the Council appealed to the Sikh community to rise above internal differences and unite to safeguard the independence and dignity of Sikh religious institutions.
The leaders warned that if the Sikh community failed to collectively protect the autonomy of its religious institutions, similar attempts could be made in the future. They appealed to Sikh Sangat, Gurdwara management committees, Panthic organizations, youth and intellectuals to raise their voice through constitutional, democratic and peaceful means to defend the religious rights and independence of Sikh institutions.
Among those present at the meeting were Manjit Singh Billa, Mandeep Singh Montu, Harpreet Singh Happy, Davinder Singh Reksi, Gurpreet Singh Bhatia, Inderjit Singh Nihang, Sher Singh Nihang (Budha Dal), Gaganpreet Singh, Kulwinder Singh Mann and Parmjit Singh Mithu.
The participants unanimously condemned the Maharashtra Government’s decision and reiterated that any compromise with the autonomy of Sikh religious institutions would not be accepted.
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