<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Baba Banda Singh Bahadur's establishment of Sikh rule in parts of Punjab during the early 18th century represented a bold assertion of self-governance by the Sikh community in response to Mughal oppression. Banda Singh's governance was characterized by a code of conduct that laid out ethical and moral principles for Sikhs, emphasizing the importance of justice and equality. This code not only served as a guideline for personal conduct but also formed the basis for a system of self-governance rooted in Sikh values.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;"></p>
<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Banda Singh implemented land reforms that aimed to address social inequalities, distributing land equitably among peasants. This economic measure was not only a step towards economic justice but also a form of self-governance, empowering local communities and reducing dependence on external authorities. The establishment of Sikh administrative structures further reinforced the notion of self-governance, where Sikhs actively participated in the governance of their territories.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;"></p>
<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Despite facing external pressures and eventual suppression, Banda Singh Bahadur's brief rule showcased a model of self-governance where the principles of justice, equality, and Sikh values formed the basis for local administration. The legacy of Banda Singh's resistance and governance became a source of inspiration for future Sikh leaders in their pursuit of self-governance and justice.</p>
&nbsp;
<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Both Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur contributed to the concept of self-governance within the Sikh context. Ranjit Singh's era demonstrated a centralized yet inclusive model that allowed for regional autonomy, promoting a sense of self-governance within the larger Sikh Empire. Banda Singh's resistance and rule, on the other hand, exemplified a localized form of self-governance deeply rooted in Sikh principles, even in the face of external challenges. Together, their contributions form integral chapters in the narrative of self-governance within the Sikh historical experience.</p>