Srinagar- Sikhs in Kashmir on Wednesday announced the formation of the All Kashmir District Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Coordination Committee.
The objective behind the committee’s formation is to get “Pahari” status for Sikh-inhabited areas of Kashmir, special job packages for Sikh youngsters and political reservation for the community, Jaspal Singh, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee’s chief in Srinagar, said in a statement.
The other objectives include implementation of Punjabi language in schools and heritage status for gurdwaras in Amira Kadal and Maharajganj.
During a press conference in Srinagar, committee members raised questions regarding the selective allocation of Pahari status, expressing concerns over the exclusion of the Sikh community from the move.
Why has Pahari status been selectively granted, leaving out communities like Sikh?,” Sikh Committee members question.
The committee also emphasized urgent land issues and concerns surrounding Gurdwara Mattan Sahab Anantnag, in south Kashmir.
Seeking assistance and permissions, the committee advocated for the construction of Gurdwara Sahab at Gulmarg and a Gurdwara boarding house in Tral, both in South Kashmir.
“We seek government assistance and necessary permissions in the construction of Gurdwara Sahab at Gulmarg and Gurdwara boarding house Tral to facilitate pilgrims and promote religious tourism,” said the committee members while addressing a press conference.