SPF condemns neglect of minority representation in judicial appointments
22/04/2026
Jammu, April 22 (KIP)- S. Balvinder Singh, President Sikh Progressive Front (SPF) and Vice President DGPC Jammu, along with S. Manjit Singh, General Secretary, S Tejinder Singh member DGPC Jammu, . Rajinder Singh Sudan, Joint Secretary, while addressing the media, stated that the Sikh Progressive Front expresses deep concern and strong condemnation over the continued exclusion of the Sikh community, a micro-minority in Jammu & Kashmir, from the recent recommendations for appointment of judges to the High Court.
Despite the announcement of a list of eleven names for elevation, not a single candidate belonging to the Sikh community has been considered. This repeated omission raises serious questions about the commitment of the system towards inclusiveness, diversity, and equal opportunity. It is particularly disheartening given the fact that the Sikh community has a substantial number of senior, experienced, and highly competent practicing lawyers who are fully eligible and deserving of consideration for elevation to the High Court. Ignoring such available talent further deepens the sense of exclusion and alienation.
It is pertinent to highlight that while the Constitution of India does not provide for reservation in higher judiciary, it guarantees equality before law and equal opportunity to all citizens. The spirit of these constitutional values requires that institutions, especially the judiciary, reflect the pluralistic and diverse character of our society.
The Supreme Court of India has, in various observations, emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusiveness in judicial appointments to enhance public confidence in the justice delivery system. However, the present situation reflects a significant gap between these principles and their actual implementation.
The Sikh community has made unparalleled sacrifices for the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the nation. From the freedom struggle to safeguarding national interests, its contributions are immense and well recognized. Continued exclusion from key constitutional positions does not align with the ideals of fairness and justice.
In light of the above, the Sikh Progressive Front strongly urges the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, and the Hon’ble Union Law Minister to take immediate cognizance of this matter, review the latest proposal/recommendations for judicial appointments, and ensure that due consideration is given to inclusivity, fairness, and representation of all sections of society, including minorities.
The Front reiterates that while merit must remain the cornerstone of judicial appointments, diversity and representation are equally essential to uphold the true spirit of justice. A judiciary that reflects the diversity of the society it serves inspires greater trust, confidence, and legitimacy among the people.
Other prominent members of Sikh progressive Front and other Sikh organization were S Satinder pal Singh, S Gurdeep Singh, S T.P Singh, Prof Pritam Singh, S Sukhwinder Singh etc.