Punjab SGPC versus Haryana SGPC: PM brokers peace

Though the two sides have called off the proposed rallies as of now, at stake is the political clout of the Akalis, who see its position slipping in case a separate Sikh body is formed to manage the shrines in Haryana. For the Haryana Congress leadership, a separate SGPC would mean fulfillment of a “commitment” made in the party’s election manifesto.

Given Sikh sensitivities on the issue, Punjab and Haryana were heading for a standoff, but the PM’s intervention has cooled the raging sentiments for the time being. Fortunately, none of the radical Akali groups have so far jumped into the fray.

SGPC president Avtar Singh Makkar said, “The issue is nothing more than a game-plan of the Congress to gain political mileage. It’s not about controlling the gurdwaras in Haryana; it’s an emotional issue. The SGPC denotes Sikh power and pride across the world and any attempt to dilute it would hurt Sikh sentiments.”

The Punjab Congress is treading safely on the issue. President of Punjab Congress Mohinder Kaypee said, “Since the PM has intervened and given an assurance, as reported in the media, SAD-SGPC should wait for a response.” 

Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda has appointed the Harmohinder Singh Chatha Committee to study the formation of a separate Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee for the state. The state Government says that it is still waiting for the committee’s report, despite indications that the committee has given a positive recommendation.

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