Hinduism in Punjab - Demand For Punjabi Suba and Subsequent Trifurcation of Punjab

Demand For Punjabi Suba and Subsequent Trifurcation of Punjab

Since the beginning of 1960's, Sikh leaders and Sikh parties started to demand a so called "Punjabi Suba" (Meaning - Punjabi Province) in North India. The argument was to carve out a state in Northern India where Punjabi was the most predominant language. The idea did not go well with the Punjabi speaking Hindus because the underline motive for the demand of Punjabi Suba was to create a province where Sikhs were in absolute majority. Therefore, it became more of a religious issue rather than a linguistic issue. Some historians argue that "Punjabi Suba" issue was the fore most reason that fomented the Sikh anger and subsequent violent terrorism against Punjabi Hindus. Paul R. Brass, the Professor Emeritus of Political Science and South Asian Studies at the University of Washington, opines that the Sikh leader Fateh Singh tactically stressed the linguistic basis of the demand, while downplaying the religious basis for the demand—a state where the distinct Sikh identity could be preserved. The movement for a Punjabi Suba led to trifurcation of Indian Punjab into three states: Punjab (India), Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.