Punjab cabinet approved the Punjab Sikh Marriage Act and it has become a law now. Indian media covered the news widely as Sikh in Pakistani Punjab now register their marriage under the Sikh Marriage Act allowing them the freedom to exercise their religious rights.
The act allows couples of 18 years and above from the community to register their marriage and divorce.
Punjab Cabinet led by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif approved Punjab Sikh Anand Karaj Marriage Registrar and Marriage Rules 2024 in a meeting held on Tuesday
Punjab’s first Sikh Minister for Minorities and Human Rights Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora declared it a historic day for Sikhs and commented: “Punjab has become the first province in the world to implement the Sikh Marriage Act.”
From now onward, Sikhs from other provinces and countries could come to Punjab to register their marriages.
Arora efforts started in 2017 to get the Sikh Act approved but the change of government could not able to proceed the important Act for the minorities.
Punjab Minority Affairs Minister Ramesh Singh Arora held a press conference on Wednesday and explained provincial government's dedication to supporting minority communities in the province. Arora emphasized several key initiatives and achievements, underscoring the Punjab government's proactive stance on minority rights.
"After taking the oath, Chief Minister Punjab had said that minorities are the crown of my head," remarked Ramesh Singh Arora.
He praised the Chief Minister for attending programs of various minority communities, including the Baisakhi celebration, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and respect.
Arora announced the historic passage of the Sikh Marriage Act in the Provincial Cabinet, a significant step forward for the Sikh community.
"The Sikh Marriage Act has become law," he stated, expressing gratitude to the Provincial Cabinet and the Chief Minister for their support.
Indian media coverage
The Indian media has extensively covered this development, with discussions across India portraying Pakistan as a minority-friendly nation. "It is being talked about all over India that Pakistan is minority friendly," noted Arora.
Sikh Personal Laws and the Hindu Marriage Act
Arora mentioned ongoing work on the Sikh Personal Laws and the Hindu Marriage Act. "We are going to make such rules to provide a good life to minorities," he said, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive environment for all minority communities.
Arora also shared plans to open various Gurdwaras and temples across Punjab, reflecting a commitment to preserving and promoting religious heritage.
He said PML-N led Punjab government accomplished more in three months than previous administrations did in five years.
Arora reiterated his dedication to reducing the inferiority complex among minorities and ensuring their rights are upheld. "Let the world see how much Pakistan has done," he said, inviting global recognition of Pakistan's efforts to support its minority communities.
What are Punjab Sikh Anand Karaj Marriage Registrar and Marriage Rules?
Under the Sikh Marriage Act, the Sikh boy and girl should be at least 18 years of age, while a five-member Sangat will make recommendations on any issue between the bride and groom.
The union council chairman should be selected from the bride's council.
Divorce under the Sikh Act
As per the Act, couple seeking divorce now bound to send a written notice to the chairman and both parties now be required to provide a copy and within thirty days of receiving the notice. The chairman shall constitute a conciliation committee and if the couple fails within 90 days or if they still fail to reconcile, a certificate will be issued.
Several legal issues arise including the distribution of inherited assets due to non-registration of marriages in the Sikh community of Pakistan.
