Though the government notification smacks foul play and there is every possibility of the elections in Punjab being cancelled by the would be government of India yet it is a nice gesture from Chandra Shekher the present prime minister of India. It is an opportunity to provide legitimacy to our struggle for independence when masses will put their seal of approval by casting vote in favor of sovereign Sikh state. recovered illustrator files mac

The happening of the last decade has shaken the Sikh Nation out of deep slumber and the nation firmly believes that independence is imperative for the survival of the Sikh faith. No amount of guarantees can provide safeguard to the Sikh masses and their faith from the repetition of 1984 happenings in an environment where 85% majority with deep rooted affinity for their religion which does not endorse equality of human brotherhood. Independence from the rule of such people is the only solution and with this end in view we must fight elections.

Since the 1984 Ghalughara there had been two elections. The first one we boycotted and the result was a simple disaster. Rajiv ruled through Balwant and Barnala. We all are familiar what happened? How much we all suffered?

The second election in which the Sikh masses participated was for the Parliament. We elected nine persons to represent us in the Parliament They presented a poor show. The leader did not enter the Parliament one was assassinated two defected and only one spoke once or twice. Result was another disaster The reason was the group was not cohesive. There was no aim of objective before the members. The leader lacked leadership and the other members lacked discipline This happened because we were not serious about elections. We led our emotions and not our senses take control of ourselves while selecting candidates.

We waited too long to decide whether to participate or not in the elections Then hurriedly named the candidates without assessing their capabilities. The candidates were nominated to compensate them for their or their family’s services in the freedom movement and not with an aim to serve the Nations and still we blame the elections and call it a futile exercise

We need a fatherly figure like Sant Bhindrawale who does not aspire for high offices. We expected the Panthic Committee to play their role But unfortunately instead of providing leadership to the nation it became a faction itself Instead of coordinating the whole movement it could hardly coordinate few jathas.

Sikh leaders should be disciplined and must give up anger ego lust greed and affection. They must submit to the Guru’s will Until and unless there is such authority whose sole aim is to coordinate and discipline the movement task will be very difficult if not impossible.

Election is a serious game. Let us play it seriously. The candidates must be disciplined and should hand over their resignations to such an authority as their first test. A disciplined team plays a better game than the asserted and excellent players but are undisciplined Candidates should be selected from all walks of life stress should be laid on capabilities rather than in their sacrifices. We must induce people with political acumen in one team. Any person who violates discipline should be dismissed. Nation cans not afford any game being played within While fighting with the most experience and resourceful Hindu government.

Elections should be fought on the issues of 1-Establishment of Sovereign Sikh state 2-Withdrawal of army and para military forces. 3-Rescinding the Draconian black laws.4-Overhaul the Police and thus provide legitimacy to the struggle of freedom in the eyes of the world. This opportunity should be used to educate the masses about the issues which otherwise are banned.

Effect should be made to coordinate with groups fighting for independence in other states like Orissa and Assam.

After winning the election no stone should remain unturned to put election manifesto in practical life.

Once again let me put a caution. The intention of the government of India to hold election in Punjab are doubtful as evident from the notification Commission will receive the nomination along with other states but voting time and date will be announced later So that if nominations do not suit the losses at Delhi the election may be cancelled. Inspite of all this we should delay in claiming one house and get prepared.

Article extracted from this publication >> May 3, 1991