Amar Garg’s Participation Termed a ‘Unique Victory’ Despite Poll Defeat

The elections of the Punjabi Sahit Academy, Ludhiana, held on March 15, 2026, were conducted solely for the post of president. The contest took place between former professor and head at Panjab University, Chandigarh, Dr. Sarabjit Singh (Narangwal), and educationist Amar Garg Kalmdan from Dhuri. As widely anticipated, Dr. Sarabjit Singh secured victory for the second consecutive term with a significant margin. While the majority of members supported him, Amar Garg received the backing of 35 members. Following the announcement of the results, Amar Garg expressed satisfaction with his participation, stating that his entry into the contest ensured the presence of many prominent writers who might otherwise have stayed away. His remarks reflected the sentiment that such elections provide an opportunity for both new and veteran literary figures to reconnect. Despite other पदों being filled unanimously and uncontested, nearly 800 individuals, including members and their associates, gathered at Punjabi Bhavan. The event witnessed participation from several distinguished personalities from India and abroad, including visitors from Toronto and various parts of Punjab. A large number of eminent literary figures and academicians attended the event, along with former presidents of the academy. The gathering also marked the first such election in a long time without the presence of the late Dr. Surjit Patar, which was remembered with a sense of loss. The occasion also featured community interactions and shared meals, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. Participants extended congratulations to all elected members and office-bearers. Dr. Sarabjit Singh was elected President, while Dr. Pal Kaur (Ambala) was chosen as Senior Vice President. Dr. Gulzar Singh Pandher (Ludhiana) assumed the role of General Secretary. Other vice presidents include Jaspal Mankheda (Bathinda), Sahajpreet Singh Mangat, Dr. Gurcharan Kaur Kochar (Ludhiana), Dr. Arvinder Kaur Kakra (Patiala), and Surinder Kaur Neer (Jammu). Members elected to the managing board include Dr. Hari Singh Jachak (Ludhiana), Bhupinder Singh Sandhu (Amritsar), Sanjeevan Singh (Mohali), Dr. Simarjeet Kaur Gill (Moga), Prof. Taraspal Kaur (Barnala), Trailochan Lochi, Manjinder Singh Dhanoa, Deep Jagdeep Singh (Ludhiana), Prabhjot Sohi (Jagraon), Navtej (Garhdiwala, Hoshiarpur), Dr. Harvinder Singh (Sirsa), Amiya Kunwar (Delhi), Rajinder Singh Rajan (Sangrur), Makkhan Maan (Jalandhar), and Rozi Singh (Fatehgarh Churian, Gurdaspur), among others. Amid the celebratory atmosphere, attendees shared sweets and refreshments. At the same time, there was a collective concern among participants regarding the need for writers to contribute towards global peace and harmony. Emphasis was laid on discouraging violence, preventing social divisions, and strengthening shared literary and cultural institutions. Participants also stressed maintaining mutual respect despite differing beliefs.