The Punjab Problem An Academic Approach

This edited version of seminar papers held in 1985 includes papers written and read by eminent scholars and intellectuals about the long-time Punjab problem which came to a boil in 1980s. The broad consensus among the enlightened participants traces the genesis of the Punjab problem to the backing out of the promises made by Congress leaders to the Sikhs before India's partition, disowning of Punjabi as their mother tongue by the Punjabi Hindus, discrimination and injustice done during State's reorganization in 1966 by central government to the Sikhs and Punjab, military attack on the golden temple and mass killing of the Sikhs in Delhi and other big cities after Indira Gandhi's assassination. These papers are thoroughly analytical, impartial study of major events and causes. The suggestions to solve the Punjab eagle are similarly constructive, rational logical and holistic. The emphasis is on treating the problem not merely as a law and order problem but as a religious, political and cultural damage and provides a healing touch. The papers present a thorough diagnosis as well as an effective treatment of each symptom. Together, the collection is a voice of sanity and distilled wisdom in the midst of hate and revenge.