Amritsar, 22 February, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
During the inaugural session of the three-day International Conference organised by Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) from 20–22 February, the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Karamjeet Singh, shared a moment of immense pride for the university and the Punjabi community worldwide.
He informed the audience that a distinguished alumnus of GNDU, Jaspreet Singh, Attorney-at-Law (USA), has created a historic milestone by presenting a memorandum to the Governor of the State of New York. Significantly, the Governor graciously agreed to the concerns raised, marking a proud moment for Punjab, Punjabi, and Punjabiat.
In a message received from Jaspreet Singh, he expressed gratitude to the Governor of New York, Hon. Kathy Hochul, for facilitating a meeting with Sikh leaders of New York.
The meeting was held on 17 February 2026 at the Governor’s Office in Manhattan, New York, and was attended by several senior officials representing key departments, including the State Police, Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Education, and Interfaith Affairs. Sibu Nair, Director of Asian American Affairs, was also present.
Describing the interaction as historic and highly productive, Jaspreet Singh stated that the meeting lasted for nearly one hour. During the discussion, he presented a detailed memorandum on behalf of the leadership of the Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society of New York. He also highlighted issues concerning immigrant communities, including the legal challenges faced by detainees and the use of Habeas Corpus petitions for securing relief.
The Governor was reported to be extremely receptive and supportive. She appreciated the valuable contributions of the Sikh community to New York State and the United States and instructed the concerned officials to take appropriate action. The key points raised in the memorandum included:
1. Official recognition of the Punjabi language in New York State, with provisions for its teaching in schools, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and colleges.
2. Support for the creation of a community centre at the Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society of New York.
3. Stronger measures for the prevention of hate crimes against Sikhs and Punjabis.
4. Assistance in establishing a funeral home to serve community needs.
5. Attention to the challenges faced by immigrant populations in the State.
Jaspreet Singh further conveyed that the Governor’s response was encouraging and constructive, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for May 2026. An invitation was also extended to Hon. Kathy Hochul to attend the Sikh Day Parade to be held in Manhattan on 25 April 2026.
The Sikh leaders present at the meeting included Gurdev Singh Kang, Jatinder Singh Boparai, Balaka Singh, Amrik Singh, Ranjit Singh, Jagir Singh, Buta Singh, Joginder Singh, and Mohinder Singh Gilzian, representing the leadership of the Sikh Cultural Society of New York.
Dr Karamjeet Singh congratulated Jaspreet Singh on this remarkable achievement, noting that such contributions by GNDU alumni reflect the university’s enduring commitment to societal engagement, cultural pride, and global advocacy for Punjabi language and identity. He remarked that the development stands as a matter of pride not only for GNDU but for the entire Punjabi diaspora.
FOLLOW NOW
