The Supreme Court took a historic step for Sikhs. It directed states and union territories to frame rules for Anand Marriage Act registration within four months. This move strengthens Sikh identity and legally recognizes Anand Karaj, the traditional Sikh wedding.
Dr Inderbir Singh Nijjar, president of Chief Khalsa Diwan (CKD), welcomed the order. He said it fulfills a long-standing demand of the Sikh community. He recalled that CKD founder Sundar Singh Majithia, along with other Sikh leaders, campaigned for a law to recognize Sikh marriages. Their efforts led to the Anand Marriage Act of 1909. However, authorities delayed proper implementation until 2012.
The Supreme Court noted that Anand Karaj lacked a proper registration system. Before 2012, Sikh marriages were registered under the Hindu Marriage Act. The 2012 amendment legalized registration under the Anand Marriage Act, but states had to issue rules.
CKD leaders hope state governments will notify rules soon. They want the registration process simple and fast. This will let Sikh couples officially register marriages under the Anand Marriage Act. It also reinforces Sikh religious rights and strengthens Panthic identity.
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