June 6, 2024, marks the 40th anniversary of Operation Blue Star, a significant and contentious event in Indian history. This military operation was conducted by the Indian Army to eliminate Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his armed followers, who had taken refuge in the Harmandir Sahib Complex (Golden Temple) in Amritsar, Punjab. On this solemn anniversary, pro-Khalistan slogans were raised within the Golden Temple premises by members of the Sikh community, with posters of Bhindranwale prominently displayed.
Background of Operation Blue Star Operation Blue Star commenced on June 1, 1984, under the orders of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The mission aimed to neutralize Bhindranwale, a militant leader who had transformed the Golden Temple into a fortress, heavily armed and fortified. The operation unfolded over ten days, culminating on June 10, 1984. This military action led to widespread violence and had long-lasting repercussions on the socio-political landscape of India, particularly in Punjab.
Commemorative Events and Security Measures To commemorate the 40th anniversary of Operation Blue Star, Sikh community members gathered at the Golden Temple. During the event, they raised pro-Khalistan slogans and displayed posters of Bhindranwale, reflecting ongoing sentiments and the complex legacy of the operation. In anticipation of potential unrest, the Punjab Police implemented extensive security measures across Amritsar. A deployment of 2,300 personnel, including two companies of the Border Security Force (BSF), one of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and 1,000 anti-riot police, were strategically stationed throughout the city. Additional officers from neighboring districts were also brought in to maintain peace and order.
Checkpoints were established on roads leading to the Golden Temple, and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) deployed hundreds of task force members within the temple complex to ensure security.
Observances by Radical Groups The Dal Khalsa, a radical Sikh organization, organized a procession to honor those who lost their lives during Operation Blue Star, referring to it as a "holocaust remembrance" parade. This group also called for an Amritsar Bandh (shutdown) on June 6 to mark the anniversary.
Political Context The anniversary of Operation Blue Star comes at a time when there is significant political activity among Sikh leaders. Notably, the detained radical Sikh leader Amritpal Singh and Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, the son of Beant Singh (one of Indira Gandhi's assassins), have been making headlines. The parents of Amritpal Singh are expected to arrive in Amritsar, and Khalsa was scheduled to reach the city on Wednesday evening. These developments add a layer of complexity to the commemorative events and underscore the enduring impact of Operation Blue Star on the Sikh community and Indian politics.
The 40th anniversary of Operation Blue Star is a poignant reminder of a turbulent chapter in India's history. The events at the Golden Temple and the heightened security measures in Amritsar reflect the ongoing significance of this operation and its lasting impact on the Sikh community. As the nation remembers this day, it is a time for reflection on the historical, political, and social ramifications that continue to resonate four decades later.
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