Amritsar, June 6: Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Garagj has once again warned the Punjab government not to ignore his directives to remove offensive clauses from the state’s anti-sacrilege law. This warning comes as the anniversary of Operation Blue Star is marked amidst pro-Khalistan slogans and posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.
During a traditional address at the Akal Takht on the 42nd anniversary of the Indian Army’s Operation Blue Star, Jathedar Garagj referred to specific objectionable clauses of the “Jagt Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026,” without naming them directly. He emphasized that this controversial law, reintroduced by the state government, must be revoked immediately.
The anniversary was observed with heavy security, drawing a large crowd of supporters and extremists. Posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who was killed during the military operation, were displayed, and slogans in support of Khalistan were chanted.
Devotees began gathering at the Golden Temple before dawn, although the assembly remained largely peaceful. The Jathedar also spoke about the central government’s black laws that were later repealed. The three controversial agricultural laws, known as the 2020 Farm Laws, were annulled following a parliamentary vote on November 29, 2021.
He urged the Sikh community to remain connected to their homeland, Punjab, and encouraged them to bring their generations to Sri Harmandir Sahib. He also appealed to people not to sell their land in Punjab, regardless of where they settle.
The day commenced with the Akhand Path at Akal Takht, followed by Gurbani Kirtan in remembrance. A significant number of devotees gathered in the Golden Temple complex early in the morning.
Operation Blue Star was a military action ordered by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Its objective was to flush out Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his armed militants, who were hiding in the Golden Temple complex with a large cache of weapons and ammunition.
The operation took place from June 1 to June 8, 1984, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides and damage to the sacred site and its surroundings.
An exhibition was set up in the complex showcasing photographs of the damage caused during Operation Blue Star and the Golden Temple. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) stated that the purpose of this exhibition was to inform the public about the military action.
Prior to the anniversary of Operation Blue Star, the radical organization ‘Dal Khalsa’ announced a shutdown and ‘Ghallughara March’ in Amritsar. In light of potential unrest, security agencies heightened their vigilance.
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