Chandigarh:A fresh controversy has erupted in Punjab over the appointment of junior coaches and other posts, with allegations that the state government is providing jobs to non-Punjabi and out-of-state candidates, while the unemployed youth of Punjab continue to run from pillar to post in search of work.
According to official records, at least 38 junior coaches were appointed despite failing to clear the mandatory Punjabi language test. The Punjab Languages Department itself has objected to these appointments, pointing out that under Punjab Civil Services rules, no individual can be permanently employed without qualifying the Punjabi language examination. Yet, the recruitment process has proceeded in violation of these norms.
This development has caused widespread anger among unemployed Punjabi youth, who see this as a betrayal of their rightful opportunities. With unemployment at record levels, lakhs of young men and women are struggling to secure government jobs despite clearing tough competitive examinations. Many allege that instead of prioritizing local candidates who are well-versed in the Punjabi language and culture, the government is opening the doors for outsiders who neither understand Punjabi nor have roots in the state.
Students’ unions, farmer organizations, and unemployed youth associations have also criticized the government, calling it an insult to the language and identity of Punjab. “When the children of Punjab, who have studied in Punjabi medium schools, are waiting for jobs, what justification does the government have to hire outsiders who cannot even clear a basic Punjabi test?” asked one protesting youth in Ludhiana.
Political analysts argue that the issue reflects a larger failure of the ruling establishment to safeguard the rights of Punjabis. Despite repeated assurances about providing jobs to local youth, government actions suggest otherwise. Critics say that giving employment to non-Punjabis not only deprives local candidates of opportunities but also weakens the cultural fabric of the state.
The controversy is expected to intensify in the coming days as opposition parties have already taken up the matter, accusing the government of “betrayal of Punjab’s unemployed.” With thousands of posts still lying vacant across various departments, unemployed Punjabis are demanding a transparent recruitment process where priority is given to the sons and daughters of Punjab, rather than outsiders.