JAMMU, Jun 25: The National Sikh Front has expressed serious concern and apprehension over the Maharashtra Cabinet’s reported decision to repeal the Nanded Sikh Gurdwara Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib Act, 1956 and replace it with a new legislative framework governing Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded, cautioning that any change in the established structure of the Takht without Sikh community confidence could lead to avoidable misunderstanding and hurt religious sentiments.
In a statement issued here today, Chairman of the National Sikh Front S. Varinderjeet Singh said that Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, one of the five Takhts of the Sikh faith, holds a unique and deeply revered position in Sikh history, spiritual tradition, and collective faith. He emphasized that decisions relating to its governance cannot be treated as routine administrative matters, as they directly touch upon the religious identity and sentiments of the Sikh Panth.
Singh stated that while legislative authority rests with the Government, the management of sacred Sikh institutions requires trust, transparency, and meaningful engagement with representative Sikh bodies. He said any perception of unilateral change in such a sensitive institution is likely to generate avoidable concern among devotees.
He further said that Takht Sri Hazur Sahib derives its sanctity not only from statutory recognition but from centuries of living faith, tradition, and spiritual authority of the Sikh community. Any restructuring of its governance framework, he added, must therefore preserve continuity, clarity, and collective confidence.
The National Sikh Front Chairman observed that matters relating to the administrative framework of Hazur Sahib have been discussed in the past as well, and therefore any fresh initiative must be introduced with clear intent and structured engagement with Panthic representatives to ensure transparency and avoid apprehension.
Singh added that the reverence associated with Hazur Sahib extends far beyond regional boundaries, as millions of devotees across India and the global Sikh diaspora regard it as one of the most sacred centres of Sikh faith and heritage.
Reiterating constitutional values, he said India’s democratic strength lies in respecting the religious autonomy and institutional dignity of all communities. He emphasized that dialogue and consultation remain the most appropriate and responsible way forward in matters concerning sacred institutions.
The National Sikh Front urged the Maharashtra Government to place the proposed changes in the public domain and engage in structured dialogue with Sikh religious bodies before proceeding further, so that all concerns are addressed in a transparent and dignified manner.
Singh further stated that transparent engagement not only strengthens mutual trust but also ensures that sensitive religious matters are handled with clarity and respect, avoiding misunderstanding or tension.