SAD President Sukhbir Badal Denounces Acquittal of Congress Leader in 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots Case
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal expressed profound shock and condemnation over the acquittal of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar by a Delhi court in a case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Janakpuri and Vikaspuri. Badal described the court's decision as reopening deep wounds inflicted on traumatised innocent Sikhs, calling it a devastating blow to the community's quest for justice.
Badal's Reaction to the Court Verdict
Sukhbir Singh Badal took to social media platform X to voice his outrage, stating that the acquittal has shocked not only the Sikh community but also right-thinking people across the world. He emphasised that this verdict has reopened the painful memories of the 1984 Sikh genocide, which continues to haunt survivors and families of victims. Badal strongly condemned what he termed as the failure of investigating agencies in this high-profile case, accusing them of not delivering justice despite decades of legal proceedings.
Political Accountability and Justice Demands
In his post, Badal, speaking both as the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal and as a Sikh leader, assured the Sikh quom (community) that the matter will not be allowed to rest. He vowed to continue the fight to deliver justice to the victims of the 1984 genocide, highlighting the long-standing demands for accountability and closure. Furthermore, Badal raised pointed questions about the roles of the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab and the previous administration in Delhi, asking what concrete steps they have taken to secure justice in this and other similar cases related to the riots.
Criticism of AAP's Stance on Sikh Prisoners
Adding to his critique, Badal accused the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party of blocking the release of Sikh prisoners, referred to as Bandi Singhs. He specifically mentioned prominent figures such as Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana and Bhai Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar, among others, stating that this has been the only contribution of the AAP government so far in addressing Sikh issues. This remark underscores the ongoing political tensions and the broader context of Sikh rights and justice in India.
The acquittal of Sajjan Kumar, a key figure linked to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, has reignited debates over legal accountability and the pace of justice for one of the darkest chapters in India's history. As reactions pour in, the Shiromani Akali Dal's stance highlights the enduring impact of the riots on Sikh politics and community relations in the country.
