Pro-Khalistani Protests at Golden Temple on Operation Bluestar Anniversary: Security Tightened in Am

Services

Stock Market Masterclass

FNO Stocks with CA Abhay

Option Trading with CA Abhay

Equity Investment with CA Abhay

Equity Trading with CA Abhay

Pro-Khalistani Slogans Echo Inside Golden Temple on 40th Anniversary of Operation Bluestar

Team finance Saathi

06/Jun/2024

Key Points:

Pro-Khalistani slogans were raised inside the Golden Temple on the 40th anniversary of Operation Bluestar.
Protesters held posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, including former MP Simranjit Singh Mann.
Security measures were intensified in Punjab to prevent any untoward incidents.

On June 6, 2024, the 40th anniversary of Operation Bluestar was marked by significant protests at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. This historic day saw pro-Khalistani slogans reverberate through the premises, recalling a painful chapter in India's history.

Operation Bluestar was a military operation ordered by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in June 1984 to flush out armed militants led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale from the Golden Temple complex. Bhindranwale, a prominent and controversial figure, was leading a radical Sikh outfit known as Damdami Taksal. The operation resulted in numerous casualties, including Bhindranwale, and led to widespread outrage and violence, eventually culminating in the assassination of Indira Gandhi later that year.

On this significant day, visuals from the Golden Temple showed a gathering of protesters holding posters of Bhindranwale. Among the protesters was Simranjit Singh Mann, a former Member of Parliament from Sangrur, who was seen displaying a poster of Bhindranwale. Mann has been a vocal supporter of the Khalistani movement, which advocates for a separate Sikh state.

The presence of these slogans and posters underscores the enduring legacy and contentious nature of Operation Bluestar in Sikh memory. For many, Bhindranwale remains a martyr and hero, while for others, he is a symbol of a violent and tumultuous period.

In response to the anticipated protests, security across Punjab, particularly in Amritsar, was significantly ramped up. SS Randhawa Singh and SSP Amritsar addressed the media, highlighting the extensive security arrangements. "Security arrangements have been made here... Forces have been deployed and barricading has been done. Any untoward incident will be monitored," stated Randhawa Singh.

The enhanced security measures included deploying additional police forces, setting up barricades, and monitoring activities within the city. These steps were crucial to ensuring that the commemoration did not escalate into violence or unrest.

Historical Context:

Operation Bluestar remains one of the most controversial and traumatic events in modern Indian history. The operation aimed to remove Sikh militants who had fortified themselves in the Golden Temple, leading to a bloody confrontation. The aftermath saw a significant rise in anti-Sikh sentiments and violence, particularly the anti-Sikh riots of 1984, which further deepened the communal divide.

Current Scenario:

The anniversary of Operation Bluestar often brings up strong emotions and memories within the Sikh community. The protests at the Golden Temple, featuring pro-Khalistani slogans and images of Bhindranwale, reflect ongoing discontent and a desire for recognition of historical grievances.

Simranjit Singh Mann's participation highlights the political dimension of these protests. Mann, who has a long history of advocating for Sikh rights and the Khalistan movement, symbolizes the intersection of religious sentiment and political activism.

Security Implications:

The heightened security in Punjab, particularly around the Golden Temple, is a testament to the sensitive nature of the anniversary. Authorities aim to prevent any escalation that could lead to violence. The deployment of forces and the creation of barricades are standard procedures to manage large crowds and potential flashpoints.

Conclusion:

The 40th anniversary of Operation Bluestar at the Golden Temple in Amritsar saw a significant display of pro-Khalistani sentiment, with slogans and posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale prominently featured. The participation of figures like Simranjit Singh Mann underscores the ongoing political and social undercurrents associated with this event. With robust security measures in place, the authorities are keen to ensure that the commemoration remains peaceful, reflecting the complex legacy of Operation Bluestar in contemporary India.

The day's events are a reminder of the deep scars left by Operation Bluestar and the continuing resonance of Khalistani sentiments within segments of the Sikh community. As India moves forward, balancing historical grievances with contemporary security needs remains a delicate and ongoing challenge.

Also Read : BSE Index Soars Over 2000 Points on Election Results and Government Formation

Join our Telegram Channel and WhatsApp Channel for regular Updates