Jammu-Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee Expresses Gratitude for Representation in J&K PSC and Outlines Pending Demands
Jammu, 19-06-2024: Under the dynamic leadership of S. Ajit Singh, Chairman of the Jammu-Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee, the Sikh community of J&K UT extends its heartfelt gratitude to the J&K UT administration, led by Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Sh. Manoj Sinha, and Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Sh. Narendra Modi, for their swift action in fulfilling a long-standing demand of the community. The administration has appointed S. Rajiv Singh, Professor and Head of the Division of Veterinary Medicine at SKUAST-J, as a member of the J&K Public Service Commission (JKPSC). This appointment addresses the absence of a Sikh member in the JKPSC for over five years, thus honoring the sentiments of the Sikh community by nominating a high-caliber intellectual to the commission. This move is seen as a significant step in reinforcing the Sikh community’s confidence in the J&K administration, which has already garnered positive momentum by addressing other critical demands, such as the implementation of the Anand Marriage Act and the installation of a statue of Baba Gurbaksh Singh Ji (Baba Banda Singh Bahadur) in Jammu.
The Jammu-Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee also urges the Government of India and the J&K LG Administration to address the following pending demands of the Sikh community:
Control of Gurudwara Properties: Prior to the Gurudwara Endowment Act of 1973, several Gurudwaras and their attached properties, constructed by former rulers and Maharajas, were managed by caretakers (Mohatmim) without ownership rights. Over time, some caretakers sold these properties for personal gain. The committee requests that all Gurudwaras and attached properties be brought under the control of District Gurudwara Parbandhak Committees as per the Sikh Gurudwara Endowment Act of 1973, similar to the Waqf Board’s management of shrines and Ziarats.
Statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji in Srinagar: The Sikh community, particularly in Kashmir Province, requests the installation of a statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji in Srinagar. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who ended the Mughal Empire’s rule in Kashmir in 1814 and annexed it to India, is a figure of great historical importance. His statue would not only inspire nationalism but also instill pride in the community’s rich heritage.
Representation in J&K Assembly: During the 1947 partition, many Sikh refugees from POJK settled in various states, with a significant number in Jammu Province. The committee requests a reservation of at least 10% of assembly seats for the Sikh community from the quota reserved for POJK refugees to ensure adequate representation.
Implementation of Minority Benefits: Although the Sikh community is recognized as a minority both nationally and in J&K, they have not received benefits under the constitutional provisions for minority communities. The committee urges the implementation of all Minority Commission recommendations for the Sikh community in J&K UT and the establishment of a Minority Commission in the UT.
Inclusion of Punjabi Language: Punjabi is included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India, and the committee requests its inclusion as an official language in J&K. They seek the implementation of Punjabi language education from pre-primary to university levels, along with the creation of posts and recruitment of Punjabi teachers.
Extension of SRO 425 Benefits: The Sikh community in Kashmir has endured tough times without leaving the valley. Extending the benefits of SRO 425 to them would strengthen and instill confidence in this community.
Regularization of Refugee Settlements: The committee requests the regularization of refugee settlements inherited by POJK refugees by granting ownership rights and resolving issues under section 254-C. Clear instructions should be issued to the Revenue Department to resolve pending cases in different Tehsil offices.
Inclusion in Pahari Ethnic Group: Sikhs living in Baramulla meet all criteria for inclusion in the Pahari ethnic group under the ST category, as per the official letter from the Secretary of the J&K Advisory Board for the development of Pahari-speaking people (No. ADB/PSP/2020/1327-28 dated 24-12-2020).
The Jammu-Kashmir Sikh Coordination Committee remains hopeful that these demands will be addressed promptly, further strengthening the Sikh community’s trust and participation in the region’s governance and cultural heritage.
