Global Sikh Council Demands Sovereignty Of Takhats, Announces Trust Formation

Punjab News: The Global Sikh Council (GSC), which brings together Sikh organisations from 28 countries, has stressed the need to restore the sovereignty, dignity, and spiritual authority of the Takhats, while also focusing on the preservation of Sikh heritage sites in Pakistan. These key points were discussed and agreed upon in the GSC Annual General Meeting (AGM), held virtually in an extended session of more than three hours. The meeting was chaired by president Lady Singh Dr. Kanwaljit Kaur and included detailed discussions on important religious, humanitarian, and administrative issues affecting Sikhs worldwide. President Dr. Kanwaljit Kaur and secretary Harjeet Singh Grewal shared the outcomes, noting that the session began with an ‘Ardas’ led by deputy president Paramjit Singh Bedi for families hit by floods in Punjab, expressing solidarity with those impacted in the river belt areas.

Key Resolutions and Trust Formation in India

Dr. Kanwaljit Kaur said that GSC will continue to back local Sikh communities in their efforts to change outdated laws and free Sri Hazoor Sahib and Sri Patna Sahib Takhats from the administrative control of Maharashtra and Bihar governments. The Council confirmed its support for the Sangat in these efforts. One of the main resolutions was to form a registered GSC Trust in India to ensure transparent service and obtain FCRA approval for charitable and outreach activities. The Council also announced that its next AGM will be held in Chandigarh in mid-November 2026. Dr. Karminder Singh, Chair of the Religious Affairs Committee, strongly urged for the independence and dignity of Takhats to be restored, highlighting their importance in Sikh tradition and calling for unity to safeguard them from political involvement. Sardar Jagir Singh, Chair of Legal Affairs, addressed growing confusion around terms like ‘Sant’ and ‘Brahm Giani’. He explained their true Gurbani-based meanings, pointing out how false titles have misled the Sangat and caused deviations in recent years.

Humanitarian Relief and Heritage Preservation

GSC Treasurer Harsaran Singh shared details on the damage caused by floods in Punjab, especially the struggles of farmers and border communities in districts like Ferozepur and Fazilka. The Council appealed to Sikh groups worldwide to coordinate relief efforts and extend support to the affected families. On the heritage side, Yaspal Singh Bains from the USA, Chairman of the Heritage Committee, presented a detailed update on the restoration of Sikh historical sites in Pakistan. He acknowledged the support of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and Pakistan’s Archaeological Department while stressing the importance of regular oversight and international cooperation to save neglected Gurdwaras and monuments. In their reports, President Dr. Kanwaljit Kaur, Secretary Harjeet Singh, and Treasurer Harsaran Singh outlined a roadmap for upcoming reforms, humanitarian aid, and other GSC-led projects. The session closed with deputy president Ram Singh Bombay delivering a formal vote of thanks, praising the thoughtful contributions of delegates and reaffirming the Council’s resolve to serve the Sikh community with unity and vision.