NAUP intensifies demand for Duggar Satellite Channel

Shikha Bandral, General Secretary, NAUP along with others during a protest in Jammu on Monday.
Shikha Bandral, General Secretary, NAUP along with others during a protest in Jammu on Monday.

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, June 24: To preserve the unique cultural identity of the Dogras and to promote the Dogri language, National Awami United Party (NAUP) today intensified its demand for the establishment of a dedicated satellite channel for Jammu.
The demand in this regard was raised by Shikha Bandral, General Secretary, NAUP.
Addressing to the media persons, Bandral underscored the critical importance of such a channel in honoring the rich heritage of the region.
Highlighting the longstanding demand of the people of Jammu, she expressed solidarity with artists and citizens advocating for the launch of a Dogri Satellite Channel and alleged that the historical issue was neglected by the successive Governments, despite the optimism following the abrogation of Article 370.
She emphasized the significance of a ‘Dogra certificate’ as a vital identity marker for Dogras, drawing parallels to the ST certificates granted to Pahadi-speaking people and stressed that cultural preservation through initiatives like a dedicated satellite channel is imperative, especially amidst cultural shifts that threaten to diminish Jammu’s distinct identity.
Calling upon Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene decisively, Bandral urged him to champion the cause and ensure the fulfillment of this longstanding demand.
“The establishment of a Dogri Satellite Channel is not merely about media representation but a crucial step towards preserving the linguistic and cultural legacy of the Dogras for future generations,” she said and added, “We are resolute in our commitment to see this demand realized,” National Awami United Party affirmed, concluding with a call for immediate action to safeguard Jammu’s cultural heritage.”
Among others who were present on the occasion included Pinki Bhagat, Neha Rani, Sushma Kumari, Suman Devi, Sushil Kumar Bhola, Deepak Singh, Vijay Kumar, Parveen Kumar, Balwan Chand, Bodhraj and Smile.