Amritsar: The annual budget session of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) commenced this afternoon in Amritsar, with tensions rising due to protest by Nihang groups led by Damdami Taksal Chief Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma. These groups, along with members of the Delhi Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and Haryana Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, have started marching towards the SGPC headquarters.
The protest is in response to a recent decision by the SGPC executive regarding the appointment and removal of Jathedars. Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma issued a statement criticizing the SGPC’s actions, claiming they go against Sikh traditions and decorum. He called on the SGPC to reconsider its decision and consult the Sikh Sangat before taking such actions.
Tensions have escalated as SGPC members themselves may protest today, raising concerns of potential clashes. Nihang groups have been stopped en route to the Golden Temple, and the situation remains tense. Security has been heightened around the SGPC headquarters with police and SGPC task forces on standby to manage the unrest.
Agenda of SGPC budget Session
Key issues to be discussed during today’s SGPC budget session include:
- The proposal and passage of the annual SGPC budget.
- Development and management plans for various Gurdwaras.
- New Schemes for Sikh education and propagation.
- Other impostant topics affecting the Sikh Community.
Security measures and SGPC’s Position
In light of the demonstrations, the SGPC has implemented strict security arrangements. police forces, along with SGPC’s own task force, have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents. SGPC officials have defended their decision making process, asserting that all actions, including the appointment of Jathedars, were carried out in accordance with the SGPC Constitution and rules.
SGPC Budget Highlights
The SGPC passed a budget of Rs. 1260.97 crore for the financial year 2024-2025, making a 14% increase over the previous year. The bulk of the budget, Rs. 994.51 crore, is allocated for the maintenance and operation of Gurdwaras, while Rs 251 crore will go towards supporting educational institutions. Additionally, rs 100 crore has been earmarked for promoting religious propagation, including organizing Sikh religious events and educating the sangat.
The ongoing protests and the significant discussions in the SGPC budget session have highlighted the growing tensions surrounding governance and decision making within the sikh community.