Maharashtra cabinet approves new Hazur Sahib law amid Sikh protests
India
Maharashtra wants to replace the old Hazur Sahib Act, which governs a major Sikh shrine, with a new law that changes how the gurdwara is run and how its leaders are elected.
The cabinet approved this move on June 22, but it's facing strong pushback from Sikh groups who feel their voices aren't being heard.
Sikhs say bill threatens shrine autonomy
Sikh leaders say the bill threatens the shrine's independence and its deep ties to Guru Gobind Singh.
They're worried it will cut down roles for Sikh organizations, remove reserved seats for Sikh MPs, and let the government appoint more board members.
Ajaypal Singh Brar from Misl Satluj alleged that the new law would reduce their role.
Now, Sikhs want Maharashtra to stick to an old agreement that protects their religious autonomy.