Eigenvalue equations for sieved polynomials or proving Askey right again

Abstract

The sieved Jacobi polynomials have been introduced by Askey. These can be obtained from conveniently taking $q$ to be a root of unity in the Askey-Wilson polynomials. The question of determining if they are eigenfunctions of some operator has been lingering for a long time. Askey impressed on us his conviction that it had an affirmative answer. It is shown that he was right and that this operator is of Dunkl type with cyclic reflections corresponding to the powers of $q$.