The meeting took place on February 17 at the Governor's Office in Manhattan.

US Attorney Jaspreet Singh Leads Push for Punjabi Language Recognition in New York

Jaspreet Singh, an Attorney-at-Law (USA) and a prominent alumnus of Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, has taken the initiative to seek official recognition for the Punjabi language in the state of New York.

Singh led a delegation of Sikh community leaders from New York to meet Governor Kathy Hochul and submitted a memorandum requesting official status for Punjabi so it can be introduced in schools and colleges.

The meeting took place on February 17 at the Governor’s Office in Manhattan. Senior representatives from various departments attended, 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.

The memorandum, submitted on behalf of the Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society of New York, sought formal recognition of Punjabi in New York State, including its inclusion in educational institutions and the DMV. It also requested support for establishing a community centre at the Gurdwara, stronger action against hate crimes targeting Sikhs and Punjabis, assistance in setting up a funeral home for the community, and attention to issues faced by immigrants in the state.

Singh additionally raised concerns about legal challenges faced by detainees, including the use of Habeas Corpus petitions for relief. He described the governor’s response as constructive, with a follow-up meeting planned in May. The delegation also invited her to the Sikh Day Parade on April 25, 2026, in Manhattan.

Source: The Tribune