Iqbal Singh Lalpura
India gained independence in 1947, but not without losing approximately a million Punjabi, especially Sikh, lives in West Punjab, now Pakistan. The majority of Sikhs settled in India, hoping to enjoy the freedom promised by Gandhi and Nehru. In 1948 and 1956, the Akali Dal merged with the Congress party to gain power. Sardar Baldev Singh and Rajkumari Amrit Kaur held important cabinet positions in India’s first government. Since then, there has always been a Sikh representative in the union government, holding important positions.
However, the Akali Dal, representing the Sikhs, soon reestablished its independent identity and left the Congress party. Many Akali leaders remained in the Congress party and enjoyed top ministerial positions in the central and Punjab governments.
The Akali Dal launched a morcha (movement) for power, demanding a Punjabi suba (province), which was finally granted in 1966. After separating from Hindi-speaking areas, four Akali leaders – Justice Gurnam Singh, Sardar Lachhman Singh, Sardar Surjit Singh Barnala, and Parkash Singh Badal – held power as Chief Ministers of the state.
To maintain power, the first three leaders compromised with the Congress party. The morcha for power resulted in countless losses of life and emotional blackmail of the Sikh community.
On December 2, 2024, the Sri Akal Takhat Sahib imposed a Tankh (penalty) on most of these Akali leaders, who had enjoyed power between 2007 and 2017.
Over the past 77 years, Sikh leaders have held important positions in state and central governments, with some even becoming the President and Prime Minister of India. Their contributions, however, require analysis.
Punjab faces significant challenges, including law and order issues, economic instability, and a brain drain, as younger generations seek employment abroad.
The Sikh faith, despite being a religion of angels, struggles to retain its followers, and conversion has become a concern.
The state government’s alleged involvement in arranging agitations against the central government and the rise of sand, land, and drug mafias, which seem to have support from those in power, are pressing issues of concern.
Agriculture, a state subject, has not been made profitable despite various state governments giving guarantees to ensure the same.
As we approach the New Year 2025, it is essential to discuss and devise a new strategy to promote the land of Guru Nanak’s teachings, emphasizing love, service, and prosperity. Punjab needs peace and prosperity, and the land of Guru Nanak requires His gospel of love and service.
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