Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee braces for 2024 polls

Preparations are underway for the inaugural elections of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), scheduled for early 2024. Gurudwara Election Commissioner Justice HS Bhalla has initiated the process, outlining a comprehensive timeline for the electoral procedures. January 8, 2024, has been earmarked as the crucial date for the final release of the electoral rolls.
The notification highlights key milestones, starting with the preparation of the draft electoral rolls in Hindi, spanning from November 17 to November 25. Subsequently, the conversion of these rolls into Punjabi is slated for November 27 to December 5. The draft electoral rolls will be published on December 9, opening the floor for claims and objections until December 25.
To facilitate a streamlined process, the Election Commission has set a deadline of January 3, 2024, for the disposal of claims and objections by the Returning Officer. Following this, January 5, 2024, is designated for the conversion of any new additions into Punjabi. Earlier in December 2022, the Haryana Government established a 38-member ad-hoc committee entrusted with the responsibility of managing, supervising, and acquiring all assets, both movable and immovable, of the 52 gurdwaras across the state.
This development follows a significant legal affirmation in September of the previous year when the Supreme Court upheld the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara (Management) Act, 2014. This ruling effectively brought all gurdwaras within the state under the jurisdiction and control of the HSGMC. In anticipation of the elections, the Election Commission has created 40 wards through a meticulous delimitation process. Additionally, thirty election symbols have been officially notified for allocation to candidates vying for positions within the HSGMC. As the state gears up for this historic electoral event, the meticulous planning and adherence to the outlined timeline underscore the commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process.