Writers, Activists Warn of Cultural Erosion; Resolve to Submit White Paper to Government
Jammu, February 16:
In a powerful assertion of linguistic and cultural identity, leading Punjabi writers, poets, activists and community leaders convened in Jammu to raise serious concerns over the continued exclusion of Punjabi from the list of official languages and the school curriculum.
The interactive meet, held under the convenorship of Paramjeet Singh, President DGPC Baramulla, turned into a collective call for justice for a language deeply intertwined with history, faith and heritage. Participants voiced strong resentment over what they described as the government’s indifferent approach toward Punjabi despite its rich literary legacy and religious significance.
Speakers emphasized that Punjabi remains the mother tongue of a substantial section of society and serves as a vital link to Sikh scriptures, literature and centuries-old cultural traditions. They warned that continued neglect could lead to gradual cultural erosion and identity loss.
The gathering proposed a series of concrete measures, including academic reforms, cultural outreach programmes, awareness campaigns and coordinated community mobilization to secure rightful recognition.
In a significant development, the participants unanimously resolved to constitute a panel of intellectuals to prepare a comprehensive white paper for submission to the government, seeking official recognition and inclusion of Punjabi in the education system.
Concluding the session, Paramjeet Singh termed the initiative “a small beginning of a new era,” reaffirming his commitment to transforming dialogue into decisive action.