Candidates go all out for HSGMC poll, families join campaign trail

As the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) elections approach, candidates are intensifying their campaigns with the help of their families. Through door-to-door visits, group meetings and social media outreach, they aim to connect with every voter in the state.

The elections for 40 wards, scheduled for January 19, will see 163 candidates in the fray. Amanpreet Kaur from Tohana (Ward-25) has already been elected unopposed. Prominent Sikh organisations have fielded candidates, including 21 from Jagdish Singh Jhinda’s Panthak Dal (Jhinda), 19 from Didar Singh Nalvi’s Sikh Samaj Sanstha, 19 from Haryana Sikh Panthak Dal and four from the Gurdwara Sangharsh Committee Haryana. Additionally, 100 Independents are contesting, with eight women among the total candidates.

The highest competition is in Hisar (Ward-29) with eight candidates, followed by six in several wards, including Panchkula (Ward-2), Shahabad (Ward-13) and Ladwa (Ward-14). Key issues being discussed by candidates include transparent management of gurdwara funds, preservation of Sikh heritage and improved facilities for devotees.

Gurnam Singh Laddi Dabri, contesting from Ward-17 (Nissing), emphasised his focus on preserving historical gurdwaras and ensuring transparency in their management. “We will work to protect the sanctity and history of gurdwaras across Haryana,” he stated.

Bhupinder Singh Sonkra, managing his mother Kapur Kaur’s campaign in Ward-16 (Nilokheri), expressed confidence in her victory. “We plan to strengthen the education system, promote the Punjabi language and provide free medical aid at gurdwaras. Upgrading the Miri-Piri Institute of Medical Sciences & Research is also a priority,” he said.

Former HSGMC president Jagdish Singh Jhinda highlighted his agenda of promoting dharma prachar, constructing hospitals and securing the gurdwaras. “We will build hospitals, schools and colleges to provide medical and educational facilities. Preventing sacrilege of the Guru Granth Sahib is also a key focus,” Jhinda said.

Voters are closely observing candidates’ stands on these critical issues, which will shape the future of Sikhism and its heritage in Haryana. With campaigns heating up, the state is set for a closely contested election.