Haryana Grants Civil Court Powers to Gurdwara Commission: A New Era of Oversight
The Haryana government has significantly amended the Sikh Gurdwaras Act, 1925, granting sweeping new powers to the state’s Judicial Commission. This move, effective immediately, empowers the commission to function as a civil court in matters concerning gurdwara management.
The commission’s jurisdiction now extends to resolving property disputes and employee-related issues within the state’s Sikh religious institutions. Gurdwaras will be categorized based on their significance and financial income for efficient administration.
Appeals against the commission’s decisions will lie directly with the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This clear appellate structure aims to ensure transparency and accountability.
This development comes alongside the state’s announcement of the launch of the “Lado Lakshmi” portal on August 22, 2025. While seemingly unrelated, both initiatives highlight the Haryana government’s focus on streamlining governance and addressing critical social issues.
The enhanced oversight of gurdwara affairs promises to bring much-needed clarity and efficiency to the management of these important religious sites, impacting the lives of countless devotees across Haryana. The long-term effects of this reform on the peaceful administration of gurdwaras and the resolution of long-standing disputes remain to be seen.
