||Black and White Digital News ||

||September 14,2024||

JAMMU :In a press conference, S.Balvinder Singh, Chairman of the Sikh Progressive Front (SPF), strongly criticized the BJP and its approach to addressing Sikh issues in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections. Singh took aim at the BJP’s manifesto, accusing the party of failing to include meaningful commitments for the Sikh community, calling the manifesto and the manifesto committee formation “an eyewash.

Lack of Representation for Sikhs in Assembly:

Singh expressed frustration over the absence of any nominations for Sikhs in the legislative assembly, pointing out the disparity in representation compared to the two nominated seats given to Kashmiri Pandits. He argued that the exclusion of Sikhs from these nominations highlights a lack of commitment from the BJP toward Sikh representation.

Anand Marriage Act Not Implemented:

Singh criticized the administration for not implementing the Anand Marriage Act, a law essential for Sikh marriage registration. He revealed thatTehsildars continue to register Sikh marriages under the Hindu Marriage Act, which, according to him, demonstrates the administration’s indifference towards the distinct legal and cultural identity of the Sikh community.

SRO 425 – Unfulfilled Promises:

A central grievance raised during the conference was the lack of action on SRO 425, which is supposed to include Kashmiri Sikhs under its provisions. Despite assurances from Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha during prior meetings with SPF members, Singh noted that there had been no progress on the ground, leaving the Sikh community feeling neglected and sidelined.

Section 254-C – No Clear Instructions from Raj Bhawan: Singh also emphasized the lack of clear instructionsfrom the Raj Bhawan on the implementation of Section 254-C, which has further delayed addressing Sikh concerns. He called this a significant administrative oversight that has left the community in a state of uncertainty.

Sikh Representation in PSC – After Struggle:

Another issue raised was the inclusion of a Sikh member in the Jammu & Kashmir Public Service Commission (PSC), which, Singh pointed out, only came after continuous follow-ups and agitations. This, he argued, reflects the systemic neglect the Sikh community faces, even when it comes to positions of public service.

Repeated Warnings to BJP:

Singh reiterated that this press conference was a continuation of earlier efforts by the SPF, particularly ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, when similar concerns were raised. He once again warned the BJP leadership that if Sikh grievances remain unaddressed, the community would withhold electoral support for the party.

The press conference sent a clear message that the Sikh community expects its concerns to be addressed seriously, and without action from the administration and BJP leadership, the community’s electoral support cannot be taken for granted.