What are the loopholes in the current system governing Sikh temples that are leading to violence?
The problem is the current Corporations Act which covers Sikh temples. This act is basically meant for businesses. So, in a way, this act has turned the shrines into businesses. Most of the Sikh temples are currently being run by trusts controlled by families or friends. These trusts make their own constitution to run these places as they like. There is no accountability for the money which devotees offer at these shrines. There are no rules for membership. They can give or deny membership to anyone. The government has to intervene to act. Q: What can the government do? A: It has to amend the Corporations Act so that Sikh shrines falling under it are run democratically. There should be rules for membership and fixed terms for office-bearers. Their management should be accountable to the Sikh community, which is not the case now. That’s why you witness ugly factional and political fights for control of these cash-rich religious institutions. Q: What was the mood like at the conclave? A:
