Sikhs remembered for sacrifices & Votes, overlooked in positions of power: Tony Slams Collegium & Modi Govt
JAMMU, Oct 30: Raising a powerful voice against what he termed the blatant exclusion of the Sikh community from the judicial appointment process, DDC Member Suchetgarh and Chief of All J&K Sikh Sangat, Taranjit Singh Tony, launched a scathing attack on the Supreme Court Collegium and the BJP-led Union Government over the recommendation of nine names for the Jammu & Kashmir High Court, with Sikh representation missing from the list.
Terming the development a serious blow to the principles of equality, inclusiveness and fair representation, Tony questioned how an entire community with a significant contribution to the legal, social and national fabric of the country could be overlooked in such an important constitutional exercise.
“Nine judges recommended, but where is Sikh representation? Is this the reality of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’? Are Sikhs wanted only when their votes, sacrifices and support are needed? When it comes to sharing responsibility and representation in constitutional institutions, why does the Sikh community become invisible? The Modi Government owes an explanation to the people of Jammu & Kashmir,” Tony thundered.
Launching a direct attack on the Collegium system, Tony said that judicial appointments cannot be allowed to operate behind closed doors without adequate transparency and public accountability. He questioned whether the Sikh legal fraternity in Jammu & Kashmir lacked capable and deserving professionals or whether their names were simply never given due consideration.
“The Collegium cannot function like a private club where a handful of people decide the future of constitutional institutions without explaining their criteria. Nine recommendations, but Sikh representation missing! Is there not a single competent Sikh lawyer in Jammu & Kashmir deserving of consideration? This is not merely a question of one appointment; it is a question of dignity, equality and institutional fairness. The legal fraternity deserves answers,” he asserted.
Tony also cornered the Modi Government, accusing the BJP of using Sikh identity and sentiments for political convenience while failing to demonstrate the same commitment when meaningful representation is at stake. He said that grand speeches about minority empowerment ring hollow when communities continue to raise concerns about their presence in important institutions.
“The BJP must stop using Sikhs as a political photo-op. Remembering Sikh Gurus, celebrating Sikh heritage and praising Sikh sacrifices on public platforms means nothing if the community is denied a fair opportunity to participate in institutions of governance. The Prime Minister must clarify whether ‘Sabka Saath’ is a genuine national commitment or merely an election slogan,” Tony said.
Recalling the historic sacrifices of the Sikh community, Tony said Sikhs have always stood at the forefront of defending the nation, protecting its borders, serving humanity and strengthening national unity. He said the community has never demanded special privileges but expects the same dignity, fairness and opportunities guaranteed to every Indian citizen.
“Sikhs have given their blood for this nation, stood like a wall whenever the country’s integrity was threatened and served humanity without discrimination. We do not need certificates of patriotism from anyone. But we will certainly not accept a situation where our sacrifices are celebrated while our representation is overlooked. We are equal stakeholders in this country, not second-class citizens,” he declared.
Tony demanded immediate reconsideration of the recommendations and urged the Collegium to ensure that deserving Sikh legal professionals receive fair consideration. He also called upon the Union Law Minister to clarify the government’s position and initiate a serious discussion on transparent and inclusive representation in constitutional institutions.
Issuing a strong seven-day ultimatum, Tony warned that failure to address the community’s concerns would trigger a widespread democratic agitation across Jammu & Kashmir. He said All J&K Sikh Sangat would mobilise the Sikh community, organise a gherao of the Union Law Ministry and approach the President of India to register its protest.
“Let there be no confusion: we are not asking for charity, political favours or special treatment. We are demanding equality, fairness and respect. If our concerns are ignored within seven days, the Sikh community will take to the streets. The government must understand that the community which has never bowed before injustice will not remain silent today. Our patience must not be mistaken for weakness,” Tony warned.