A group of Sikh representatives has called upon the central government to begin discussions with the Sikh community regarding its long-standing unresolved issues. In a letter addressed to the Government of India, the representatives emphasized that these matters can be resolved within the legal framework of the Constitution of India.
Unresolved Issues Since Independence
The letter noted that despite various political parties ruling Punjab and the Centre since independence, several pertinent issues concerning the Sikh community remain unaddressed to this day. The representatives urged the Centre to resolve these pending matters through dialogue and discussion, avoiding political wrangling and without incurring economic costs.
Religious and Identity Concerns
The representation highlighted that some concerns were religious in nature, while others pertained to Sikh identity, social values, and legal justice. Among the issues raised, the signatories demanded strict guidelines against restricting or debarring Sikhs wearing the Kirpan from taking examinations, both within Punjab and outside the state.
Marriage and Legal Reforms
The representatives also sought an expansion of the Anand Marriage Act to include provisions for divorce and other marriage-related matters, beyond just registration. Additionally, they called for a review of cases involving all Sikh political prisoners and a one-time general amnesty for those who have completed their sentences or a substantial portion thereof. The letter further requested a pardon for Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar's death sentence.
Historic Gurdwaras and Language Rights
Other demands included the return of historic gurdwaras such as Mangu Math in Puri and Gyan Godri in Haridwar to the Sikh community, the introduction and protection of Punjabi as a second language in states adjoining Punjab, and the reopening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor. The representatives also sought liberal visas for NRI Sikhs, abolition of a blacklist containing names of NRI Sikhs, immediate elections for the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), and amendments to the Sikh Gurdwara Act of 1925.
Apology and Restitution
The letter demanded the return of artefacts and manuscripts taken during the June 1984 attack on the Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple), as well as an apology in Parliament for the attack and the November 1984 Sikh pogrom. The signatories included advocate Navkiran Singh, Kendriya Singh Sabha secretary Khushhal Singh, Institute of Sikh Studies vice-president Gurpreet Singh, ISC Chandigarh secretary-general Birendra Kaur, and retired senior journalist Jaspal Singh Sidhu.
