Gurbani telecast issue: Punjab Assembly passes Sikh Gurdwara (Amendment) Bill, 2023
Punjab CM Bhagwant Maan provided a comprehensive explanation of the amendments in the Gurdwara Act during the proceedings.
Chandigarh, June 20: During the second day of the special session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, the Sikh Gurdwara (Sodh) Bill 2023 was unanimously passed, despite objections from members of the Akali Dal. The bill had previously received approval from the Punjab government and was presented for debate in the Assembly.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Maan provided a comprehensive explanation of the amendments in the Gurdwara Act during the proceedings. He criticised the functioning of the Shiromani Committee, highlighting the absence of elections for over a decade, which resulted in the formation of an executive committee.
Maan also highlighted the suggestion from the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib to establish a dedicated channel by the SGPC, which remains pending.
Additionally, a vote was passed in opposition to the cessation of Rural Development Fund (RDF), with Chief Minister Bhagwant Maan announcing his intention to approach the Supreme Court if the funds are not released by the Central government. The Chief Minister also introduced the Punjab Police Amendment Bill, which is currently being discussed in the Assembly, with MLAs providing their suggestions.
During the session, Chief Minister Bhagwant Maan shed light on the financial aspects of broadcasting Gurbani, disputing claims of it being free. He emphasised that channels broadcasting Gurbani earn revenue through subscriptions and advertising. The popularity of Gurbani broadcasts, watched for two hours daily in the morning and evening, attracts viewers and advertisers alike, contributing to the channels' profitability.
Maan emphasised that intellectual property rights for the content lie with the channels, which require viewers to purchase subscription packages, including overseas packages priced at $54.