The Kiplings and India: A Collection of Writings from British India, 1870-1900

The Khalsa Diwan (April 27, 1887)

The Address lately presented by the Khalsa Diwan—the confederation of the Singh Sabhas throughout the Province—to His Honor the Lieutenant-Governor, may be accepted as expressing tho public opinion of the orthodox Sikh brotherhood; and, seeing how important a factor this opinion must always be in Punjab politics, it is worth noting the chief points alluded to, and the manner of their reception by our new Lieutenant-Governor. Besides the usual sentiments of devotion to learning and enlightenment generally, the Khalsa Diwan express two definite educational hopes: first, that the dropped scheme of an Agricultural School for the Punjab may be revived under Mr. J. B. Lyall; and secondly, that the Punjab University may be thoroughly reformed. Turning to legislation, the Khalsa Diwan notice only the Land Tenancy Bill. They confess that, before His Honor came to the Punjab, they had fears respecting this Bill: but that now, knowing his sympathy of old for the agriculturist, they have confidence that good only will be done. Lastly, with regard to religious matters, the Khalsa Diwan denounce the present management of the great Sikh temple, and declare their intention to bring the matter again before His Honor's notice. With regard to the Tenancy Bill, Mr. Lyall's reply, which we have already published, merely suggested that the fears of the Khalsa Diwan had been groundless; that the Bill was before the Legislative Council, and all doubtful points would be carefully considered. To the other subjects of special interest—the Agricultural School, the reform of the Punjab University, and the mismanagement of the Golden Temple His Honor committed himself to no opinion. 

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