||Black and White Digital News ||

||October 12,2024 ||

KASHMIR: A joint delegation comprising members of the District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committees (DGPC) of Budgam and Srinagar, along with several well-wishers, met Omar Abdullah at his residence today to congratulate him on his party’s success in the recently concluded Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. The delegation also extended warm wishes to Abdullah for being unanimously elected as the chief ministerial candidate of the National Conference, set to form the next government in the Union Territory.

Key Points Discussed and Delegation’s Representation :The Sikh community leaders took the opportunity to present their long-standing demands. Omar Abdullah assured them that their genuine concerns—already reflected in the party’s election manifesto—would be addressed promptly after the formation of the government.

Among the key issues raised were:

Inclusion of Punjabi as an official language in Jammu and Kashmir

Implementation of SRO 425, granting minority status and related benefits to Sikhs

Implementation of the Anand Marriage Act, recognizing Sikh marriages

Representation of Sikhs in government institutions and jobs

Addressing concerns of displaced Sikh families

Ensuring community safety and protection of religious institutions

Official recognition of Sikh holidays

S.Gurjit Singh, President of DGPC Budgam, expressed optimism after the meeting, stating, “Omar Abdullah’s assurances give us hope that the new government will finally address the long-pending issues of our community.” Shammi Oberoi and Mushtaq Guroo, the newly elected MLA from Chanapora, also participated in the meeting.

Abdullah listened attentively to the concerns of the DGPC members and reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the Sikh community. He stressed that his party is dedicated to inclusive governance, ensuring the rights and concerns of all communities, including minorities, are addressed fairly.

Future Course of Action :The DGPC delegations conveyed their confidence that the new government under Abdullah’s leadership would work toward fostering communal harmony and development. They also emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue between the Sikh community and the administration to ensure timely implementation of promises.

With Omar Abdullah poised to lead the new government, the meeting signifies a positive step toward addressing the grievances of the Sikh community and strengthening their relationship with the political leadership in Jammu and Kashmir.