Iqbal Singh Lalpura Steers Historic Summit, Amplifying Sikh Rights Nationally
Bahadurjeet Singh/Rupnagar,December 20,2023
In a groundbreaking initiative amplifying Sikh minority rights and addressing critical national issues, Chairman Iqbal Singh Lalpura orchestrated a historic virtual summit. Chief Secretaries / secretaries from 18 states, spanning Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Odisha, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, and Chandigarh, converged in an unprecedented gathering.
This pivotal discussion centered on a spectrum of vital Sikh community concerns, notably emphasizing relief measures for victims of the 1984 Anti-Sikh massacre. Beyond this, the dialogue embraced diverse issues, addressing challenges ranging from Gurudwara Dong Mar in North Sikkim to Gurudwara Gyan Godri in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, and the land disputes in Gujarat’s Kutch district, impacting the Sikh community.
The urgency of integrating Punjabi language education at the primary level across multiple states – Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Chandigarh – was fervently advocated. Additionally, concerns over the struggles faced by Terai farmers in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh and the need for comprehensive rules under the Anand Marriage Act of 1909 were addressed.
Chairman Lalpura’s astute attention to detail extends beyond overarching issues, as he dedicatedly addresses intricate challenges faced by the Sikh community. Recently, he actively intervened in the matter of Rs 20,000 challans imposed on vehicles of the Sangat outside the historic Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib. Lalpura’s swift and determined efforts yielded immediate relief for the Sangat, alleviating this burdensome predicament. His commitment extends beyond mere resolution, as he remains steadfast in securing a permanent solution to ensure that the Sangat visiting the revered Gurdwara Sahib are spared from such unwarranted hassles, reaffirming his unwavering dedication to the comfort and respect of those paying homage at this sacred site.
Iqbal Singh Lalpura Steers Historic Summit, Amplifying Sikh Rights Nationally. Chairman Lalpura’s groundbreaking leadership as the first Sikh figure to convene such a diverse assembly of Chief Secretaries highlights the government’s commitment to minority welfare and inclusivity. Leading the National Commission for Minorities, Lalpura’s proactive stewardship stands as a testament not only to serving the Sikh community but also to championing the rights and needs of all minorities across India.
