The Future of Punjab: Divine Ties and Historical Divisions
As a proud Punjabi, the idea of dividing the region among Hindus and Sikhs, often symbolized by the demand for Khalistan, is deeply distressing. My community shares a profound connection with the Sikh community, and the dissolution of Punjab would be a catastrophic blow to our social fabric.
Historical Precedents in Punjab
Punjab, like any other region in South Asia, has a complex history marked by several divisions. The province has been carved up several times, each time leaving its mark on the region's socio-political landscape. Understanding these historical events can help us appreciate the importance of the unity that binds us today.
Divisions in the Past
1900 was a time when Punjab Province was at its zenith, encompassing vast territories that are now home to multiple regions and countries. The province included what is now Indian Punjab, Pakistani Punjab, as well as parts of Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and regions of Pakistan. Peshawar, known as Pishore to ethnic Punjabis, was separated in 1901 due to its strategic importance, being made the capital of the North West Frontier Province (N.W.F.P. or now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa).
In 1911, Delhi was excised from Punjab, which was then designated as the capital of India. The most significant and devastating division, however, occurred in 1947 when the colonial British divided the subcontinent, leading to the partition of Punjab. This led to the creation of distinct territories for India and Pakistan and left a legacy of communal strife and loss.
The formation of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh in 1966 was a result of the Punjabi Suba movement, aiming to ensure that a majority of Punjabis and Sikhs would reside in a single, majority-speaking state. This marks the fourth and most recent division of Punjab. It is worth noting that similar sentiments have been expressed in the past, and history teaches us that the consequences of such divisions are dire.
Future of Punjab
Dividing Punjab once more would be a foolhardy and destructive decision. People would be forced to leave their homes and communities, losing their properties and facing violence. Economic losses would be significant, and the social fabric of the region would be torn apart. It is imperative to understand that breaking up a region in this manner can only result in bloodshed and turmoil.
The Logical Capital: Lahore
Should the idea of Khalistan come to fruition, it is logical to consider Lahore as the capital. Historically, Ladakh, now part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, has been a strategic and culturally significant region, and if Khalistan were to exist, it could encompass this area as well. Pakistan, however, must prepare for this eventuality in a proactive manner, ready to deal with the pro-Khalistan factions.
Conclusion
The bonds that tie us together in Punjab are irreplaceable. The memories of our shared heritage, our times of joy, and our struggles are all interconnected. Breaking Punjab apart would be a step backward, revisiting the pain and divisions of the past. It is time for us to uphold the spirit of unity and coexistence that has always defined our region.
Together, we can ensure that Punjab remains a beacon of diversity, progress, and harmony, where people of all faiths and backgrounds can thrive.