JAMMU/SRINAGAR, October 14: The All J&K Sikh Sangat’s Punjabi Morcha has achieved a major victory, with successful talks in Srinagar and a written assurance provided to the delegation regarding the inclusion of Punjabi as an official language of Jammu and Kashmir.
Following the successful outcome of the discussions, the Morcha leadership announced that the agitation would be called off. A press conference will be held tomorrow, October 15, after 3:00 PM, where the formal announcement regarding the lifting of the Morcha will be made.
The development marks a significant moment for the Punjabi language movement, which witnessed growing support from Sikh religious institutions, social organisations, community leaders and people from different walks of life throughout its peaceful agitation.
The delegation, led by former minister Manjit Singh, held successful discussions in Srinagar following an invitation facilitated by Rajya Sabha MP Gurwinder Singh Oberoi. A written assurance was provided to the delegation concerning the demand for Punjabi’s official language status in the Union Territory.
The delegation comprised Manjit Singh, Ranjit Singh Tohra, Surjit Singh, Balvinder Singh, Jagpal Singh, Gurmeet Singh Tara, Verinder Singh Sonu, Paramjit Singh Sodhi, Gurjeet Singh Kingi, Sandeep Kour and Pavneet Kour.
The delegation expressed satisfaction over the outcome of the talks, viewing the written assurance as the fulfilment of a key demand raised during the Morcha. In addition to this, Land for Maharaja Ranjit Singh statue will be allotted, Sikh Advisory Board to be made.
Taranjit Singh Tony, Chairman of Gurdwara Rani Talab, Digiana, and a prominent leader of the Punjabi Morcha, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all supporters, delegation members, Sikh religious institutions, social organisations, community leaders and individuals who stood firmly with the movement.
Tony said the victory belonged to the entire Punjabi-speaking community and everyone who supported the cause with dedication, unity and determination. He appreciated the contribution of the delegation members who represented the community’s aspirations during the Srinagar discussions.
He also thanked Rajya Sabha MP Gurwinder Singh Oberoi for facilitating the consultation and helping advance the dialogue on the long-standing demand.
Tony reiterated that the Morcha had remained peaceful, democratic and constitutional throughout its campaign. He emphasised that the movement was never against any language or community but was aimed at securing rightful recognition for Punjabi and protecting Jammu and Kashmir’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
The Morcha received support from numerous Sikh religious bodies, community organisations and social groups, whose solidarity strengthened the campaign and kept the demand in public focus.
With the successful conclusion of the Srinagar talks and the written assurance received by the delegation, the All J&K Sikh Sangat has decided to bring the agitation to a close. Further details and the formal announcement regarding the lifting of the Morcha will be shared during tomorrow’s press conference.
Taranjit Singh Tony thanked every supporter who stood shoulder to shoulder with the Sangat, stating that the collective unity and peaceful struggle of the community had been instrumental in achieving this victory for Punjabi.
