Punjab News: Seminar on the Policy Implications of June 1984 Held at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University

The Department of Punjabi at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, organized a seminar on the theme “Policy Implications of June 1984.” The seminar was chaired by Prof. (Dr.) Prit Pal Singh, Vice-Chancellor of the University, while Prof. (Dr.) Sukhwinder Singh Billing, Dean Academic Affairs, attended as the Guest of Honour. The speakers included S. Parmjeet Singh Gazi, Editor of Sikh Siasat; Dr. Gurpreet Singh Brar of Punjabi University, Patiala; and Dr. Harneet Kaur Billing, Head of the Department of Education.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Sikander Singh, Head of the Department of Punjabi, highlighted the significance of the seminar and briefly discussed the cultural, linguistic, and educational implications of June 1984 and its continuing relevance.

Speaking on “June 1984: Changes in Communication Policy and Media,” S. Parmjeet Singh Gazi observed that conflicts are fought not only on physical battlegrounds but also in the realm of ideas and public perception. He discussed the role of communication channels and media narratives during and after 1984 and reflected on how different media platforms have contributed to shaping public memory of the events.

Dr. Gurpreet Singh Brar, in his presentation on “Indian Policy and Practice after June 1984,” argued that the events must be understood within the broader political context of Punjab, including developments following the Punjabi Suba movement. He also discussed issues relating to Punjabi language, Gurmukhi script, and cultural identity.

Addressing the gathering on “The Impact of June 1984 on Educational Policy,” Dr. Harneet Kaur Billing examined the influence of the events on educational institutions, textbooks, and linguistic environments. She emphasized the need for greater academic engagement with the subject and reflected on its implications for educational discourse and historical understanding.

In his presidential address, Prof. (Dr.) Prit Pal Singh remarked that the official narratives and explanations presented by the government regarding the events of June 1984 have often been contested and remain a subject of critical academic inquiry. He emphasized the historical, social, and psychological impact of the events and highlighted the importance of such seminars in fostering informed discussion and connecting younger generations with history.

Prof. (Dr.) Sukhwinder Singh Billing underscored the need for sustained academic dialogue on June 1984 within universities and stressed the importance of creating spaces for informed scholarly discussion on significant historical events.

The seminar concluded with an interactive session during which research scholars and students engaged the speakers in discussion. Dr. Hardev Singh, Head of the Department of Religious Studies, also shared his views and reflected on the concept of Sikh identity. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Sikander Singh, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished speakers, faculty members, researchers, students, and guests for their active participation in making the seminar a meaningful academic engagement.