The All India Sikh Students Federation (AISSF) has issued a strong warning against any attempt to merge parts of Punjab District with a proposed separate Jammu state, following recent political speculation. The organization insists that Punjab’s territorial integrity must be preserved at all costs.
AISSF Voices Concern Over Punjab’s Borders
The call comes in response to remarks by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who hinted at the possibility of carving out Jammu as a separate state from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Rumors have since spread suggesting that some border districts of Punjab—specifically Pathankot and Gurdaspur—might be transferred to Jammu.
The AISSF, led by Sarbjit Singh Jammu, Gurkripal Singh, and Jeet Singh Ludhiana, said in a joint statement from Amritsar on Sunday that while they have no objection to the creation of a separate Jammu state, any reorganization that involves redrawing Punjab’s borders would be unacceptable.
“Punjab’s borders are sacred. Any attempt to reduce its territory sets a dangerous precedent for further fragmentation,” the statement warned.
Historical Context: Punjab’s Past Territorial Losses
The Sikh student leaders pointed out Punjab’s painful history of territorial reduction, which adds to their apprehension:
At the time of India’s Partition in 1947, Punjab lost over half its historic land to Pakistan.
The dissolution of Patiala and East Punjab States Union (PEPSU) further changed the administrative map of the region. The linguistic reorganization of states resulted in the creation of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh from parts of Punjab’s territory. “Punjab has already suffered considerably from these historic decisions. We cannot afford any more losses,” AISSF asserted.
Political and Economic Impact
Beyond regional concerns, AISSF highlighted the economic challenges facing Punjab. They noted that industries have been moving out of Punjab to neighboring hill states, a trend they partly blame on central government policies.
The proposed territorial changes, they warn, could further weaken the state’s economy and shake the confidence of Punjab’s residents in the federal system.
“Punjab needs support to grow, not to be further divided,” the statement said.
Strategic Importance of Border Districts
Pathankot and Gurdaspur hold strategic value due to their location near the Himalayan foothills and their role as gateways to Jammu and Kashmir. Experts say any change in their administrative status could have security and logistical consequences.
Currently, the central government has not issued any official notification regarding the formation of Jammu state or the territorial reorganisation involving Punjab. Nevertheless, the ongoing speculation has sparked debate among politicians and citizens.
Call for Unity Among Punjab Political Parties
The AISSF has appealed to all political parties in Punjab to unite to protect the state’s borders and oppose any move that threatens its territorial integrity.
“This is not just a political issue but one that concerns the very identity and future of Punjab,” the Sikh students added.