Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar has been convicted by the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi for his role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, specifically for the murder of Jaswant Singh and Tarun Deep Singh in the Saraswati Vihar area. The conviction marks a significant legal milestone in one of India's longest-running cases, bringing a four-decade legal battle closer to closure.

A Long Road to Justice

The 1984 anti-Sikh riots erupted in the wake of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination on October 31, 1984, leading to widespread violence against the Sikh community. Sajjan Kumar, a senior leader of the Congress party at the time, has faced multiple allegations of inciting mobs and orchestrating attacks against Sikhs.

While Kumar was acquitted in 2013 in a separate case related to the riots, his conviction now strengthens efforts to hold those responsible for the mass violence accountable. The CBI had reopened investigations into several cases, leading to Kumar’s indictment in 2018. He has been serving a life sentence since December 2018 for his role in another 1984 riots case in Delhi’s Sultanpuri.

The Conviction and Legal Proceedings

The Rouse Avenue Court ruled on February 12, 2025, that Sajjan Kumar was guilty of orchestrating the attack in Saraswati Vihar, where Jaswant Singh and Tarun Deep Singh were killed. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 18, 2025, where the court will decide the punishment. Given his prior conviction, the possibility of an additional life sentence looms large.

Impact and Reactions

This latest conviction has sparked strong reactions from various political and social groups. Several Sikh organizations and human rights activists have welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward long-overdue justice. On the other hand, some Congress leaders have distanced themselves from Kumar, emphasizing that the party does not support individuals convicted of crimes.

Legal experts suggest that the sentencing could set a strong precedent for other pending cases related to the 1984 riots. Many survivors and families of victims are still awaiting justice in similar cases.

Next Steps: Awaiting Sentencing

With sentencing set for February 18, all eyes are on the court to determine whether Kumar will receive another life sentence or additional penalties. Meanwhile, Kumar's legal team is expected to challenge the verdict in a higher court.

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