Haryana Cabinet Approves Amendments to Sikh Gurdwaras Management Act

The Haryana Cabinet, led by CM Nayab Singh Saini, approved amendments to the Haryana Sikh Gurdwaras (Management) Act, 2014. Notable changes include the eligibility of High Court judges for the position of Commission Chairman and the removal of the age cap of 65 years in Section 46.

In a significant move, the Haryana Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, approved the draft of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwaras (Management) Amendment Ordinance, 2024. The new ordinance seeks to amend the Haryana Sikh Gurdwaras (Management) Act, 2014.

Under the proposed amendments, the Chairman of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Judicial Commission could be a High Court judge, if appointed. If unavailable, the District Judge or one of the three selected Commission members will assume the role based on seniority. The tenure for the Chairman or a Member will be five years from the date of assuming charge.

Previously, the Chairman had to be a retired district judge with at least 10 years of experience. The Commission, a quasi-judicial body, resolves disputes related to Gurdwara properties and funds. Another key amendment removes the upper age cap of 65 years as specified in Section 46 of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwaras (Management) Act, 2014.