Amit Shah Criticizes Rahul Gandhi and Congress Over 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots

Chandigarh, November 1 (Daily Kiran) : Central Home Minister Amit Shah launched a fierce attack on Congress and Rahul Gandhi during a rally in Chandigarh on November 1, 2026. He accused the party of being responsible for the brutal killings of thousands of Sikhs during the anti-Sikh riots of 1984. Shah criticized Gandhi for organizing a significant rally in Delhi on the same date, suggesting it was an insensitive act that reopened wounds for the victims’ families.

Speaking at Tiranga Park, Shah recalled the horrific events of November 1, 1984, when riots instigated by Congress led to the merciless slaughter of Sikhs in Delhi. He described how many were burned alive, families were torn apart, and countless children were left orphaned. Shah referenced a controversial statement by then-Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, which he claimed exemplified the callousness of Congress leaders during that dark chapter in Indian history.

Shah emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, cases related to the riots have been reopened, and victims received financial assistance of five lakh rupees each. He stated that no political party had previously sponsored such violence, calling it a unique shame for Congress.

The Home Minister also questioned Rahul Gandhi’s awareness of history, suggesting that the Congress leader might not have known the significance of the dates he chose for his rally. Shah noted that the BJP had previously urged Congress to avoid holding events on November 1, 2, and 3, as these dates coincide with the riots, which would hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community. Despite this, Congress proceeded with its plans.

Shah condemned the rally’s timing, implying it was orchestrated from abroad to coincide with the anniversary of the tragedy. He expressed strong disapproval of Congress’s actions, stating that the people of India and Punjab would never forget the atrocities committed.

In addition, Shah addressed concerns from Delhi’s traders regarding the rally’s timing during the Diwali shopping season. He pointed out that merchants had repeatedly requested Congress to reschedule, as the holiday period is crucial for their business. The Home Minister highlighted that the festival generates approximately 25,000 crore rupees in commerce over just a few days, making the timing of the rally particularly disruptive.

Reflecting on the achievements of the Modi government, Shah noted significant milestones such as the abrogation of Article 370, the decline of Naxalism, and the abolition of triple talaq. He pledged that by December 31, 2029, India, including Punjab, would be drug-free, reaffirming the government’s commitment to combating substance abuse.

Shah also expressed optimism about Chandigarh’s development, announcing that the administrator, Gulab Chand Kataria, would soon address three major issues that have persisted for decades. He promised that under Modi’s leadership, the BJP would work to make Chandigarh the country’s top administrative unit.

Earlier, Shah inaugurated and laid the foundation for various development and infrastructure projects worth 258 crore rupees in Chandigarh before addressing the public gathering at Tiranga Park.