LANGUAGE, PARTITION, AND POLITICS: A HISTORICAL EXAMINATION OF PUNJABI LANGUAGE POLICY IN POST-INDEPENDENCE PUNJAB PAKISTAN
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Abstract
The neglect of Punjabi language in Pakistani language policy was the subject of this research. The study seeks to comprehend the ways in which public statements and official documents shape and portray Punjabi, as well as the effects of these policies on the daily lives of Punjabi speakers. The study design integrates document analysis with semi-structured interviews, using a critical discourse analysis (CDA) methodology. According to Table 1, the discursive techniques and underlying ideologies of official policy declarations, educational reforms, and government reports concerning Punjabi were examined. Teachers, linguists, activists, media figures, and writers of children's books who have an interest in Punjabi were also interviewed (Table 2). Theory from Bourdieu (1991) and Anderson (2006), who discuss the relationship between language and national identity, provide the theoretical foundation for the research. The study aims to provide light on the marginalization of Punjabi in Pakistan by exploring the connection between these ideas. Analysis of the documents and interview transcripts using a thematic method for data analysis. The official papers were reviewed for any instances of Punjabi-related metaphors, recurrent word choices, or framing. Topics covered in the interviews included the difficulties encountered by Punjabi speakers, methods for advancing the language, and the effects of language policy generally. The results show that official papers follow a pattern of discursive methods that put Urdu at the center of national identity and marginalize Punjabi (Table 1). Tables 1 and 2 show that Punjabi speakers face additional disadvantages due to a lack of educational options, the de-emphasis of Punjabi use, and the absence of representation in the media. Table 2 shows that stakeholders are working hard to maintain Punjabi via campaigning, content development, and education. This work adds to the body of knowledge on minority languages and language policy by providing a detailed analysis of Punjabi's marginalization in Pakistan. Recognizing linguistic variation within national identity is crucial, because it brings attention to the power dynamics that are at work.
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