The Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) has found itself embroiled in a fresh controversy today after its President announced the passing of a ₹104 crore budget for the fiscal year. The meeting, intended to outline the development of Gurdwaras across the state, instead became a focal point of internal dissent as several members claimed the proceedings were “illegal” due to an incomplete quorum.
The Budget Highlights Despite the ruckus, the HSGMC Chief declared the budget passed, earmarking funds for several key areas:
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Education & Healthcare: A significant portion of the ₹104 crore is allocated to the modernization of schools and dispensaries run by the committee.
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Dharam Prachar: Funds have been set aside for religious preaching and the celebration of upcoming centenaries.
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Infrastructure: Renovation of historical Gurdwara buildings and the construction of new Sarays (inns) for pilgrims.
The Quorum Controversy As soon as the meeting concluded, a group of dissenting members addressed the media, raising serious allegations:
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The Claim: Opposing members stated that out of the total members required for a valid General Body Meeting, the attendance was significantly lower than the mandatory 50% + 1 requirement.
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Alleged Mismanagement: They accused the leadership of “bulldozing” the budget without proper discussion or transparency regarding the previous year’s audits.
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Legal Threat: The dissenting faction has threatened to move the Haryana Gurdwara Judicial Commission to declare the meeting null and void.
The Chief’s Defense The HSGMC President dismissed the allegations, maintaining that the meeting was conducted strictly according to the HSGMC Act. “All members were duly notified. Those who are raising objections are merely trying to create hurdles in the development of the Panth. We have sufficient numbers, and the budget is legally binding,” he stated.
Why it Matters This friction comes at a time when the HSGMC is under pressure to prove its administrative efficiency following its legal victory to manage Haryana’s Gurdwaras independently from the Amritsar-based SGPC. Such internal disputes could delay crucial social and religious projects across the state.
