Jaswant Singh Zafar, Director of the Bhasha Vibhag (Language Department) of Punjab, has accused a section of the bureaucracy of attempting to "wind up" the department by withholding funds, stalling promotions, and creating administrative obstacles. In a social media post, Zafar claimed that a high-level government source informed him that a group of bureaucrats is determined to dissolve the department, pointing to several months of developments that support this assertion.
Allegations of Fund Withholding and Administrative Delays
Zafar detailed several specific allegations. He stated that nearly 70 books awaiting publication by the Printing and Stationery Department have not received any budget allocation, despite explicit directions from the Chief Minister. Additionally, payments for five to six literary events organized over the past three months have been withheld. Contractual workers hired to fill nearly 70 vacant posts for attendants and sanitation staff were not allowed to continue after April 1. Promotions for departmental officers have been denied, and no action has been taken to vacate the department's Sahit Sadan building from the possession of the NCC, despite repeated requests.
Department Continues Work Despite Hurdles
Despite these challenges, Zafar claimed that the department has continued its operations. The team managed to publish long-pending literary journals without receiving publication funds and continued planning literary programs despite pending payments and repeated attempts to demoralize officers and employees.
Background and Impact
The Bhasha Vibhag is responsible for promoting Punjabi language and literature. The alleged bureaucratic moves threaten its core functions, including publishing and organizing literary events. Zafar's statements highlight a conflict between the department and certain bureaucrats, potentially impacting cultural and linguistic preservation efforts in Punjab.
