Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Punjab Govt, SGPC Clash Over Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Events
The Punjab government and the SGPC, which manages Sikh temples, are fighting over who should lead the events for Guru Tegh Bahadur's anniversary.
The government wants to hold its own events, including a big trip and shows.
The SGPC thinks this is wrong and is already holding its own events.
They worry the government's actions will confuse people and go against traditions.
The government says the SGPC doesn't own the right to hold these events.
Both sides are preparing, and lots of people are expected to come.
Punjab government and SGPC are in dispute over events commemorating Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom.
The state government plans a special yatra from Srinagar and events across Punjab.
SGPC, already holding events, criticizes the government's move as interference.
CM Mann questions SGPC's authority, referencing past conflicts over event organization.
Preparations include sound-and-light shows, seminars, and infrastructure upgrades in Anandpur Sahib.
- Who
- Punjab government led by CM Mann and the SGPC.
- What
- Dispute between Punjab government and SGPC over commemoration of Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom anniversary.
- When
- Events planned for November; conflict arose in the present.
- Where
- Punjab and surrounding areas (including Srinagar and Anandpur Sahib).
- Why
- Disagreement on organizing events related to the Sikh Guru's anniversary; potential political gains.
Punjab Government
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)
Event Jurisdiction
Punjab Government
Can hold events independently; no SGPC 'copyright'.
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)
SGPC's claim of interference in Sikh institutional matters.
- Event
- 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur
- Government Plans
- Yatra from Srinagar, events across Punjab, sound and light shows, seminars
- SGPC Actions
- Holding events since April; criticizing government's move
- Key Locations
- Srinagar, Anandpur Sahib
- Potential Impact
- Reach out to people in run-up to 2027 Punjab Assembly polls