In an unprecedented move marking a milestone for the Sikh community in Pakistan, the Punjab provincial cabinet, spearheaded by Ramesh Singh Arora—the first Sikh minister in Maryam Nawaz’s government and President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC)—has announced a series of transformative amendments to the Sikh Anand Karaj Marriage Act 2018. WSN reports.

In a historic stride toward bolstering the rights and legal standing of its Sikh minority, the Punjab province of Pakistan, under the leadership of Ramesh Singh Arora, has introduced pivotal amendments to the Sikh Anand Karaj Marriage Act 2018. Arora, who not only serves as the Provincial Cabinet Minister for Minority Affairs but also presides as the President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), has been instrumental in driving these reforms, which are hailed as a beacon of progress for the Sikh community in Pakistan.

Aimed at fortifying the legal framework around Sikh marriages in Pakistan for the microscopic Sikh community, the proposed amendments to the Sikh Anand Marriage Act 2018, not only set the minimum age for marriage at 18 but also introduce a structured mechanism for marriage registration, divorce, and reconciliation, aligning with the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib. This landmark legislation promises to streamline marital processes and bolster the rights of the Sikh minority, showcasing Punjab’s commitment to nurturing an inclusive and equitable society.

This landmark legislation promises to streamline marital processes and bolster the rights of the Sikh minority, showcasing Punjab’s commitment to nurturing an inclusive and equitable society.

At a recent meeting in Lahore attended by Head Granthis from prominent Gurdwaras across Pakistan, including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib, Dera Sahib, and Peshawar, a consensus was reached on several key amendments. Notably, the reforms set the legal age for marriage within the Sikh community at 18 years, aligning with international child rights and marriage norms. This decision underscores a commitment to the welfare and rights of Sikh youth, ensuring their readiness for the responsibilities of marriage.

In addition to setting the marriage age, the amendments establish a clear and dignified marriage registration procedure according to Guru Granth Sahib’s teachings. Couples must fill out the Anand Karaj form and submit it to the authorized registrar within 30 days of their marriage, a move that not only legitimizes Sikh marriages but also aids in their documentation and legal recognition.

Further strengthening the communal and spiritual framework of Sikh marriages, the amendments propose the formation of a reconciliation council to mediate in matrimonial disputes. This initiative aims to foster harmony and understanding within couples, embodying the communal spirit and values of Sikhism. The council’s establishment, emphasizing the need for Sikh background members, highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and religious understanding in resolving marital issues.

The council’s establishment, emphasizing the need for Sikh background members, highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and religious understanding in resolving marital issues.

Ramesh Singh Arora’s efforts signify a monumental step forward for the Sikh community in Pakistan. By advocating for these amendments, Arora not only champions the rights of minorities but also facilitates the legal acknowledgment and sanctity of Sikh marriages. The implementation of these reforms is anticipated to address long-standing issues such as non-registration of marriages, inheritance disputes, and the lack of a formal divorce procedure, thereby simplifying and dignifying the lives of Sikh Pakistanis.

As these changes take effect, they herald a new era of equality, justice, and respect for the Sikh community in Pakistan, making it a pioneering example of minority rights protection in the region.

Title Photo Courtesy: www.allaboutsikhs.com