For centuries, Sikh institutions have been the backbone of the community, serving as a guiding force for spiritual, social, and political matters. These institutes, designed to uphold the values of Seva (selfless service), Simran (meditation), and the pursuit of justice, were meant to safeguard Sikh issues and act as moral leaders. However, in recent times, the once-venerated establishments seem to be drifting far from their core responsibilities, leaving the sangat (community) with a sense of betrayal and disappointment especially here in SYDNEY.

The question that echoes is: Have our Sikh institutes become more about appearances than action?

The Disconnection Between Institutes and Sangat

When we look around today, we see Sikh institutions engaging in grand public displays—massive programs, lavish events, and symbolic gestures. Yet, when it comes to addressing the core issues facing Sikhs—whether it’s the rights of minorities, political representation, or justice for the atrocities committed against the community—the response is often lukewarm or entirely absent.

These institutes were meant to be the torchbearers, yet they seem to spend more time in bureaucratic entanglements, internal politics, and power struggles than in actual service to the Panth. This has led to a growing sense of distrust within the sangat.

Take, for instance, the recurring issues in Punjab or the diaspora’s struggles. From human rights violations to the erosion of political and religious freedoms, there seems to be a lack of urgency from these institutions. Instead, many leaders are quick to release statements, write letters to irrelevant authorise (example ASA letter to PM Albanese in the aftermath of Perth incident) or show up at protests, yet tangible actions are rare. It’s almost as if the institutes have become experts in eyewashing making public appearances that suggest they’re doing the work, while behind the scenes, nothing substantive is being done.

Is It All Just a Show?

Let’s be honest. How often do we hear about large donations being collected, only for sangat members to wonder where the funds actually go? Institutes are running grand fundraising drives, organizing events, but when it comes to investing in legal battles, educational empowerment, or community welfare programs, the transparency is shockingly low. It raises the uncomfortable question: Is the sangat being fooled in the name of religious and political work?

The institutions meant to act as protectors of the Sikh faith seem more focused on maintaining power or expanding their reach. And while they expand their influence, the issues affecting the common Sikh be it discrimination, economic hardship, or the preservation of language and culture are being pushed to the background.

When will the Sangat Wake Up?

The truth is Sikh history is filled with examples of leadership from the sangat itself. From the formation of the Khalsa under Guru Gobind Singh to the countless struggles for justice, the power of the community has always been paramount. So, why should today be any different?

The sangat has been patient, but it’s time to ask ourselves: How long will we allow this pattern to continue? How long will we allow institutions to operate without accountability? When will we stop accepting empty promises and demand real action from those in power?

The sangat holds the true power in Sikhism. The gurus taught us the importance of collective action, responsibility, and standing against injustice. We, as a community, need to stop blindly following these institutions just because they hold titles. We need to hold them accountable. They must be reminded that their purpose is to serve the people, not to make a spectacle of it.

We need to reclaim our institutions, demand transparency, and push for leaders who live by the values they preach. If those in charge are not doing their jobs, we must rise up and replace them with those who will. It’s our duty as Sikhs to ensure that the legacy of our faith is not used for personal gain but for the greater good of the Panth.

The question is no longer *when* the sangat will wake up it’s how soon. The moment we collectively realize our strength, we can redirect the course of these institutes back to the path of true service. The time for change is now. Let’s not wait for another generation to lose faith in institutions that were supposed to protect them.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh