JAMMU, Oct 3: Mission Statehood President Sunil Dimple extended his support to Sikh organisations protesting for due recognition of Punjabi as an official language in Jammu and Kashmir. Dimple participated in a protest dharna along with members of Sikh organisations at Tawi Bridge near the statue of Maharaja Hari Singh, where he expressed support for the demand.
Addressing the protesters, Dimple said that Punjabi has an important historical and cultural connection with Jammu and Kashmir and called upon the government to consider the demand for granting official language status to Punjabi. He referred to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, whom he described as having played an important role in the history of the region.
Dimple appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and members of the BJP core group, including BJP MPs and MLAs, to take up the issue during their discussions in Jammu. He urged the BJP leadership to consider passing a resolution supporting the declaration of Punjabi as an official language in Jammu and Kashmir.
Dimple said his organisation would extend full support to the Sikh community on the issue. He further stated that, if required, he would support and participate in a Jammu bandh call in support of the demand for official recognition of Punjabi.
He also highlighted the contribution of the Sikh community, Sikh Gurus and freedom fighters to the history of Jammu and Kashmir and the country. According to Dimple, members of the Sikh community have made sacrifices for the nation and have contributed to the protection of the region, its people and its borders.
Dimple also questioned the BJP-led Union Government and sought clarification on its position regarding the demand to declare Punjabi an official language in Jammu and Kashmir. He said there was an emotional and cultural connection between the Hindu community and the Punjabi language and expressed support for the Sikh community’s demand.
Several political and social leaders also participated in or extended support to the protest. Among those present were S. Tarnjiet Singh Toni, Apni Party Provincial President S. Manjit Singh, PDP spokesperson S. Verinder Sonu Singh, along with leaders and representatives of various other organisations.