Amritsar (Rajesh Sandhu): A major controversy has erupted in Amritsar over the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act 2026 Controversy, after Sikh religious leaders strongly opposed the legislation passed by the Punjab government.
The head granthi of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, Giani Amarjit Singh, said the wording of the act directly hurts the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Sikh Leaders Call Act “Hurtful and Misleading”
During a large gathering at Teja Singh Samundri Hall, organized under the leadership of Shiromani Committee President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, several religious leaders expressed serious concerns over the law.
They said the terminology used in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act 2026 Controversy goes against Sikh traditions and religious sentiments.
Giani Amarjit Singh stated that terms like “store” for Guru Granth Sahib Ji are unacceptable, as Sikh maryada uses respectful terms like Sachkhand and Sukhasan.
Shiromani Committee Alleges Political Agenda
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee leaders claimed that the act is not only controversial but also a political strategy.
They argued that the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act 2026 Controversy reflects government interference in Sikh religious institutions.
Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami said the law creates confusion among Sikh sangat and raises doubts about government intentions.
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act: Concerns Over Religious Interference
Speakers at the meeting said the act could distance young generations from religious values. They emphasized that Sikh institutions should not face external control or interference.
They added that while strict punishment for sacrilege is supported, government control over religious affairs is not acceptable.
The Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act 2026 Controversy has now become a major issue in Sikh political and religious circles.
Appeal to Akal Takht for Decision
The gathering unanimously appealed to Sri Akal Takht Sahib to review the matter and issue guidance.
Leaders said any decision taken by the highest Sikh temporal seat will be accepted by the entire Khalsa Panth.
They also urged the government to reconsider the law and consult Sikh institutions before implementing such policies.
Conclusion
The Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act 2026 Controversy has triggered strong emotions in Punjab, especially in Amritsar. Sikh leaders continue to demand changes, calling for respect, consultation, and protection of religious traditions.
Key Highlights of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Act:
- Sikh leaders strongly oppose new Punjab law.
- Act 2026 called “hurtful” to religious sentiments.
- Shromani Committee terms it a political move.
- Concerns raised over government interference.
- Appeal made to Akal Takht for intervention.
