The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) strongly condemns the continuous step-motherly treatment that Punjab has received from successive Union governments since India’s independence. Despite Punjab’s unmatched sacrifices for the nation’s freedom and its extraordinary contributions toward national security and food production, the state has repeatedly suffered discrimination, economic neglect, and political interference.
Punjab’s sacrifices for India’s independence remain unparalleled. From the Ghadar Movement to the heroic legacy of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Udham Singh, Kartar Singh Sarabha and countless others, the people of Punjab paid the highest price through martyrdom, imprisonment, and oppression under British rule. Yet, after independence, these sacrifices were neither acknowledged appropriately nor translated into fair policies for the state.
One of the most glaring examples of discrimination is the allocation of river waters. Punjab’s constitutionally rightful share was diverted to other states through arbitrary and politically motivated decisions. This not only violated riparian rights but also damaged Punjab’s agricultural foundation, leading to groundwater depletion and a long-term economic crisis for Punjabi farmers who once made India self-sufficient in food grains.
Economically, Punjab has given more to the nation than it has ever received. While other states were granted special financial status and large-scale central investment, Punjab—despite its massive contribution to India’s food security, tax revenues, and the armed forces—was consistently ignored. Industrial opportunities, research institutions, and development projects were diverted elsewhere, leaving Punjab with rising unemployment and youth migration.
In addition, as a frontline border state, Punjab has endured the direct impact of wars and ongoing security challenges. Its villages have repeatedly faced evacuation, shelling, and economic disruption. Yet the Central Government has failed to deliver adequate border-area development packages or support needed to ensure the safety and stability of these vulnerable regions.
NAPA also condemns the historical pattern of political and religious interference in Punjab’s internal affairs. Sikh identity and institutions have been repeatedly mishandled at the national level, contributing to alienation and distrust among Punjabis. From the unresolved wounds of 1984 to unnecessary interference in Sikh religious bodies, this attitude continues to damage federal harmony.
Satnam Singh Chahal stated that Punjab is not asking for favors—it is demanding justice. The state deserves its rightful water share, economic support, political respect, and freedom from discriminatory policies. Punjab’s contributions to the nation must be acknowledged and reciprocated through fair and constitutional treatment.
NAPA urges the Union Government to immediately re-evaluate its policies towards Punjab and to ensure equitable distribution of resources, protection of federal rights, and meaningful development initiatives. Only then can trust be restored and Punjab’s long-standing grievances addressed.