SAD leader seeks restoration of Major Bhupinder Singh’s statue

After recent interventions by members of the Public Action Committee, Bharat Nagar Chowk has now drawn the attention of senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former minister Maheshinder Grewal, who has raised two pressing concerns regarding the site’s civic and cultural upkeep.

Grewal has called upon the authorities to take immediate steps to restore the statue of Major Bhupinder Singh and the captured tank at the chowk. The statue, once proudly installed at the city’s central junction, was temporarily removed and shifted near Rose Garden during the flyover construction.

In addition to the statue’s restoration, Grewal has demanded that signage boards at Bharat Nagar Chowk, currently displayed in English and Hindi, must also include Punjabi, the mother tongue of the region.

“It is unacceptable that Punjabi, which represents the soul of the state, is missing from public signage in such a prominent location,” he stated.

He argued that linguistic representation was not just a matter of identity but also of inclusivity and respect for local culture.

Grewal has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the authorities to address both issues. “If the authorities fails to act within this time frame, I will be compelled to take the matter into my own hands,” he warned, signaling potential direct action or mobilisation.

His remarks have renewed public interest in the condition of civic landmarks and the role of language in public spaces.

Local residents and civic groups have largely welcomed Grewal’s intervention, echoing concerns about the fading visibility of Punjabi in urban signage and the deteriorating state of memorials.

We encourage our children to learn Punjabi, to stay connected to our roots but it’s disheartening when the authorities themselves neglect our mother tongue. “If public signage don’t reflect our language, what message are we sending about its value,” questions Paramjeet Kaur, a Punjabi teacher.

Members of the committee, who had earlier flagged similar issues, expressed hope that the minister’s involvement would accelerate corrective measures.