Delay in framing co-option norms stalls oath ceremony of new gurdwara panel

Nearly three months after the historic elections to the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), the newly elected members are yet to take oath and assume charge, due to delays in framing rules for co-opting nine additional members.

The inaugural elections, held on January 19, resulted in a fractured mandate. Of the 40 elected members, 22 were Independents, nine belonged to Panthak Dal (Jhinda), six to the SAD-affiliated Haryana Sikh Panthak Dal, and three to the Sikh Samaj Sanstha led by Didar Singh Nalvi. A group of 19 Independents later formed the Akal Panthak Morcha, gaining support from six Sikh Panthak Dal members and claiming a majority with 25 members.

Despite this, the swearing-in has been put on hold. The Gurdwara Election Commission scheduled two meetings to co-opt nine members — on February 2 and February 14 — but both were postponed due to the absence of co-option rules.

“We have written to the government regarding the rules for co-opting the additional nine members. The oath ceremony will be conducted only after this process is completed,” said Justice HS Bhalla (retd), Commissioner of the Gurdwara Election Commission.

Didar Singh Nalvi criticised the delay: “This defeats the purpose of holding elections. The community expects swift transfer of responsibility to the elected body.”

Baldev Singh, president of the Haryana Sikh Panthak Dal, highlighted concerns over education. “There are six institutions under HSGMC. The admission season is on, and delays could impact enrolment.”

Prakash Singh Sahuwal, a leading figure in the Akal Panthak Morcha, said, “Even after 11 years of the HSGMC Act, rules for co-option remain pending. The delay is unjustified.”