Survivors and Sikh groups question timing of INDIA bloc rally
Sikh organisations and 1984 riot survivors have demanded an apology from Congress over a political rally scheduled for November 1.
Survivors of the 1984 anti-Sikh killings and various Sikh organisations on Sunday questioned the Congress decision to hold an INDIA bloc rally on November 1. According to The Times of India, the date marks the 42nd anniversary of the massacre.
In West Delhi, Sikh community members and survivors participated in a march from Hari Nagar to Tilak Nagar. The participants demanded an apology from Congress and Rahul Gandhi.
Senior advocate HS Phoolka, who has represented riot victims for decades, said November 1 is a black day for the Sikhs and the entire country. He stated that Congress should observe the day and hang their heads in shame.
The 1984 Riot Victims Welfare Society also objected to the rally, stating that November 1 is a day of mourning rather than political mobilisation. The society's representatives met Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Friday to raise demands for housing, employment, and rehabilitation.
SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami described the massacre as a stain on the world's largest democracy. He said the hearts of victim families will not find peace until those responsible are punished.
Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney, who met survivors in Delhi, alleged that the killings were systematically planned.