Sajjan Kumar sentenced in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case; Demand for justice intensifies

Sajjan Kumar sentenced in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case; Demand for justice intensifies

KINS Desk 

Srinagar, Feb 14 (KINS): A court has sentenced former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, a case that has witnessed decades-long legal battles and persistent demands for justice.

Kumar, found guilty of his involvement in the large-scale violence against Sikhs, had allegedly used legal loopholes to evade punishment for years.

The verdict, welcomed by many, comes after years of efforts by victims and their families, as well as sustained legal action.

Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee President Paramjeet Singh expressed gratitude to the judiciary and the government for ensuring justice. He stated that while the sentencing of Sajjan Kumar is a significant step, action must also be taken against other accused individuals.

“The massacre of 1984 was not just a riot, it was a genocide. Thousands of Sikhs, including children, women, and the elderly, were brutally killed. Many were burned alive. The Indian government should officially recognize it as a genocide and issue an apology,” he told news agency KINS.

He further stated that, according to the Nanavati Commission, 2,733 people were killed, 547 FIRs were registered, yet only 28 individuals have been convicted so far.

Singh also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for setting up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expedite justice for the victims’ families. (KINS)