Marginalization of Punjabi in Pakistan: Exploring Language

The study critically analyzed the historical, socio-political, and ideological influences that have shaped Pakistan's language policies, particularly those that have marginalized Punjabi.This study examined the impact of prevailing language ideologies on popular perceptions and public policy outcomes.This research employed Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) alongside Language Ideology Theory as theoretical framework.Research design was qualitative.The data was collected from scholarly literature, policy documents, and historical records.The research conducted a thematic and critical analysis of the data to reveal underlying power dynamics and ideological presuppositions within language policies and public discourse.The analysis indicates that Urdu was established as a language of national cohesion through nationalist principles, whereas English serves as a symbol of opportunity and Punjabi is predominantly confined to rural and informal settings.The National Education Policy (2009), in conjunction with the Punjab Curriculum Policy (2015), effectively excludes Punjabi from educational contexts, thereby perpetuating systemic language discrimination that jeopardizes the future viability of the language.Media outlets have reinforced prevailing linguistic stereotypes by portraying Punjabi as a language associated solely with the rural existence.The research findings provide crucial insights for education policymakers and educators aiming to formulate language policies that promote equality within multilingual communities.