Srinagar: A coalition of Sikh bodies in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir has strongly demanded the reinstatement of the region’s special status and statehood as it stood before August 5, 2019. This call was made during a press conference in Srinagar where prominent Sikh organizations voiced their concerns about recent political and administrative changes in the territory.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the groups involved, including the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) JK unit, Sikh Intellectuals Circle, J and K Sikh Council, International Sikh Federation, Sikh Students Federation, and many Sikh Naujawan Sabha of Jammu, expressed support for the conduct of assembly elections but criticized the amendments made to the reorganization act which, they argue, have weakened the powers of the assembly and eroded democratic rights in Jammu and Kashmir.

The organizations highlighted ongoing discrimination and neglect faced by the Sikh minority in the region on issues such as the recognition of the Punjabi language, political representation, and justice for past anti-Sikh riots. They also pointed out the adverse effects of the 2021 delimitation report which they claim has fragmented Sikh-dominated constituencies, diluting their electoral influence.

The Sikh groups have called upon their religious leaders and activists across Jammu and Kashmir to devise a unified strategy to ensure better representation and address the community’s grievances. They hope such efforts will lead to a more inclusive political landscape that reflects the diversity of the region.