Sikhs in America were pleased and overwhelmed by the decision made in Indian Parliament to pass the bill that permits Sikhs to register their marriages under Anand Marriage Act. While Rajyasabha unanimously passed Anand Karaj Amendment Bill on Monday, Loksabha approved the bill with a voice vote. So far Sikhs were mentioned as Hindus on marriage certificates as their marriages were covered under Hindu Marriage Act. Many American Sikhs earlier said that members of the same community face problems abroad as they identify themselves as Sikhs while marriage certificates mention them as Hindus.

Hailing the historical bill that got passed, Rajwant Singh, chairman of Sikh Council on Religion and Education (based in Washington) said: Not having a full recognition of their observances and their customs in India had created a sense of lack among Sikhs in India and it questioned their independent identity as a community."

Another noted Sikh in USA, I J Singh, a New York based Sikh commentator has hailed the move by the Government. He has said that the passing of Anand Marriage amendment was crucial one for Sikhs in India as well as across the globe.

Chairman of Guru Gobind Singh Foundation said he was pleased with the passing of the bill. He said finally Sikhs in India got a chance to feel that they have been identified.  (Phani)