Will Punjab get its first-ever Sikh minister post partition?

Since, Maryam Nawaz has become Pakistan’s first female chief minister, sparking curiosity among minority circles and the Sikh community about the possibility of Punjab seeing its first Sikh minister post-partition. Punjab, often referred to as the land of Baba Guru Nanak Sahab, holds immense significance for Sikhs due to sacred places like Nankana Sahab and Kartarpur.

While the Punjab Assembly welcomed its first Sikh Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA), Sardar Ramesh Arora, in 2013, and a second Sikh MPA, Sardar Mahendar Pal Singh, in 2018, the province has yet to see a Sikh minister between 2013-2023. Ramesh Arora gained attention for introducing the Sikh Marriage Bill in 2017, unanimously passed by the House. In the current assembly, Arora stands as the sole Sikh MPA.

The political landscape shows efforts by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to integrate minority members, with figures like Krishna Kumari and Gayan Chand serving as senators. However, Punjab is yet to witness a Sikh minister, raising anticipation about the PML-N’s potential decision to appoint one after bringing in the first Sikh MPA. As Punjab remains a hub for religious tourism, the role of minority representation gains significance in the political landscape.