Amritsar, September 24: Solemnisation of a same-sex marriage at a Gurudwara in Bathinda on September 18 had led to a major controversy with the Akal Takht jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on Saturday suspending granthis (Sikh priests), management and ragis (gurbani exponents).

After the news of same-sex marriage at the Gurudwara had come to light, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) and Dal Khalsa demanded action against the shrine's management committee and the granthi who performed the Anand Karaj (Sikh marriage ceremony).  Same-Sex Marriage at Punjab Gurdwara: Two Girls Tie Knot at Gurdwara in Bathinda, Granthi Who Solemnised Wedding Apologises After Uproar.

The wedding between the two women was solemnised on September 18 at Gurdwara Kalgidhar Sahib at Canal Colony in Bathinda. At the time of wedding, both the women, who are adults, submitted their Aadhar cards, which mention their genders. However, the marriage certificate issued by the priests on the letterhead of the gurdwara allegedly described one of the partners as male. Same-Sex Marriage: Whether Anyone Has a Fundamental Right to Marry? Supreme Court Queries While Hearing Pleas Seeking Recognition for Gay Marriages.

A press release has been issued by the Takht office, with the jathedar terming the wedding a sheer violation of religious code of conduct and general ethics, reported Hindustan Times.

“This act is not only against the Sikh maryada but also an unnatural practice. Granthis, managements and ragis of all other gurdwaras in the world should be conscious of this trend,” the jathedar said, adding, “The wedding rituals, which is called ‘anand karaj’, must be solemnised as per Sikh maryada.”

The jathedar has also constituted a sub-committee to probe the entire matter, and the action will be taken after a report is submitted.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 24, 2023 11:26 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).