Chandigarh: Senior Congress leader and retired Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Gurinder Dhillon has strongly criticized the Maharashtra government’s reported move regarding the administration and management of Sikh religious institutions, describing it as a direct interference in Sikh religious affairs and a matter of serious concern for the Sikh community worldwide.
In a social media post, Dhillon termed the Maharashtra government’s action as “highly condemnable” and asserted that opposing such interference is the responsibility of every religious-minded individual. He argued that any government intervention in the management of Sikh religious places raises legitimate concerns about the treatment of religious minorities and could undermine the autonomy traditionally enjoyed by Sikh institutions.
Dhillon further stated that the development has created suspicion among Sikhs regarding the intentions of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He questioned why the Punjab BJP leadership had not taken a stronger stand against what he described as an encroachment on Sikh religious affairs. Referring specifically to Punjab BJP President S. Kewal Singh Dhillon, he said the state unit should have actively opposed any measure perceived as interference in Sikh institutions.
The former police officer also drew attention to Kewal Singh Dhillon’s efforts to highlight Sikh history and heritage within the BJP, including displaying portraits of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at the party’s Punjab office. However, he maintained that symbolic gestures alone were insufficient if Sikh concerns regarding religious autonomy were not adequately addressed.
Dhillon warned that if the Maharashtra government proceeds with the controversial measure, it could reinforce the perception among Sikhs that the ruling establishment is complicit in weakening the independent management of Sikh religious places. He asserted that Punjab BJP leaders would be held accountable by the Sikh community if they fail to intervene.
Calling for immediate action, Dhillon urged Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon to press the central and state leadership to withdraw the proposed law or policy. He also appealed to Punjab BJP leader Sunil Jakhar to use his influence within the party to ensure that Sikh concerns are addressed and the legislation is reconsidered.
In addition, Dhillon requested former National Commission for Minorities Chairman Iqbal Singh Lalpura and senior BJP leader Srinivas Sullu to examine the issue and advise the government against implementing any measure that could be viewed as interference in Sikh religious affairs.
The remarks have added to the ongoing debate surrounding the role of governments in the administration of religious institutions and are likely to generate further discussion among Sikh organizations, political parties, and community leaders across the country.
Dhillon emphasized that religious institutions should remain free from undue governmental intervention and reiterated that preserving the autonomy and sanctity of Sikh religious places is essential for maintaining the trust and confidence of the Sikh community.