Akali Dal Leaders Strongly Condemn CBSE’s Decision to Remove Punjabi from Syllabus

Chohla Sahib (Tarn Taran), February 26, Rakesh Nayyer

Former President of the All India Sikh Students Federation and General Secretary/Spokesperson of Shiromani Akali Dal, Jathedar Karnail Singh Peer Mohammad, along with Chairman of Punjab Rural Development Society and former MLA of Khadoor Sahib, Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, have strongly condemned CBSE’s decision to exclude Punjabi language from the syllabus for Class 10 board exams.

The leaders expressed deep concern over this biased move, calling it a grave injustice to Punjabis. Responding to CBSE’s new draft policy, which has removed Punjabi from the list of second languages for board exams, the leaders emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Punjabi language and culture. They firmly stated that this move is an attack on Punjab’s rich linguistic heritage and a blatant disregard for Punjabi sentiments.

Rejecting CBSE’s clarification that the draft policy is indicative and existing subjects remain unchanged, S. Peer Mohammad and S. Brahmpura insisted on a concrete assurance to safeguard Punjabi in the curriculum.

They also expressed strong disappointment over the insensitivity of the BJP-led central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing it of continuing conspiracies to betray and ignore Punjabis.

The leaders jointly condemned the BJP and highlighted the significant contributions of Punjabis to the nation. They reiterated that Punjabi is a globally respected language, and no force can ever erase its significance. They also warned the BJP against using such tactics to undermine Punjabi identity.

Concluding their statement, they said:
"Punjabi is not just a language; it is a symbol of our rich cultural heritage, and any attempt to suppress it will never succeed."