Giani Raghbir Singh, head granthi of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, has expressed concern over the neglect of Punjabi language in Punjab while lauding Australia's recent decision to recognize it as the country's 17th official language.

In a media interaction, he described the Australian government's move as a matter of pride for Punjabis worldwide, emphasizing that it elevates the language's global stature.

Highlighting troubling reports, Giani Raghbir Singh noted that some schools in Punjab impose fines for speaking Punjabi, a practice he called deeply unfortunate for a state rooted in Punjabi culture.

He urged the Indian government to grant Punjabi full recognition as a mother tongue, mirroring its growing acceptance abroad.

The head granthi appealed to Punjabis to take pride in their language and promote its use, stressing that it is not just a means of communication but a cornerstone of their identity and heritage. "If we abandon our language, others will not value it," he warned, calling for collective efforts to preserve Punjabi's legacy.