National Minorities Commission seeks report over vindication against Sikh children
By: Pallab Ghosh
Radiance News Service
National Minorities Commission Chairperson (NMC) Iqbal Singh Lalpura who took over as Chairman of the Commission two months ago held an introductory meeting to interact and discuss ideas and suggestions with the Press in order to improve the working of the Commission. Lalpura, a former IPS officer, served as Additional Inspector General CID Amritsar, SSP Tarantaran, and SSP Amritsar. He joined BJP in 2012 after retirement.
NMC Chairperson Iqbal Singh Lalpura interacting with journalists
The Chairman emphasized having a transparent relationship between the Press and the Commission. "Often we look at things from a theoretical point of view but you being on the ground, interacting with victims have a practical perspective that can help in resolving issues fast and in a transparent manner," said Lalpura. He suggested a regular interaction between the Commission and journalists where both can share their experiences and suggestions.
Iqbal Singh Lalpura informed that the Commission has taken up the issue of Sikh children being forced to remove their 'kada' (metal bangle worn as per the 'Five Kakke' tenets in the Sikh region) before entering examination halls. Also, children are allowed two hours prior to the examination which is not only creating stress among the children but also brews a religious resentment among the community. "We have received complaints from West Bengal, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh," informed Lalpura.
Highlighting the plight of Indians (Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim) people who migrated from Afghanistan many years ago and are still living like refugees, he said, "I have taken up the issue with the Home Minister. We shall try to issue them citizenship after detailed verification. This may take some time." The Commission is inviting applications.
NCM has taken up the issue of the objectionable depiction of members of minority communities in films with CBFC and the I&B Ministry. Lalpura informed that the Commission has received several representations from the Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs about the communities are portrayed in ‘poor light’ in films."
The Commission has also initiated action against the nine states and trying to resolve the compensation issue of the victims of the 1984 Sikh Riots. It has issued notices to nine states in this regard.