HSGMC ex-chief Baljeet Singh Daduwal raises concern over conversions in Punjab, Haryana

Jathedar Baljeet Singh Daduwal, former president of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), has raised concerns over the increasing cases of conversions of Sikhs and Hindus in some parts of Punjab and Haryana, stressing they would expedite awareness campaigns across the region.

Interacting with mediapersons here, Daduwal alleged that certain groups were actively involved in targeting vulnerable sections of society. He also stressed the importance of strengthening community institutions, such as gurdwaras and educational bodies, to provide spiritual guidance.

Daduwal, who has been co-opted as a member in the new body of the HSGMC, expressed satisfaction over the functioning and growing influence of the HSGMC, which has now begun managing gurdwaras in the state independently. He appealed to Sikh saints and organizations in Haryana to extend their support to the committee in its efforts to uphold religious and community values.

Daduwal said they would take control of the Miri Piri Medical College, which was earlier under the control of the SGPC. He said the land was originally owned by Gurdwara Mastgarh Sahib, and nobody could stake claim over it.

“The Supreme Court and the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Act, 2014, clearly mandate that such religious properties should be managed by the HSGMC. We demand immediate removal of this illegal encroachment. We have met CM Nayab Singh Saini and he has promised all kind of help,” Daduwal said.

He also raised concerns regarding 100 MBBS seats at the medical college which remain vacant due to lack of proper infrastructure and administration.

“Our youth are suffering. These seats could have been used to help young students become doctors and serve the community. The Haryana committee is actively working to develop the required facilities so that our children can pursue their dreams,” he said.