New Delhi, July 26, 2023 – The Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi has taken a significant step towards seeking justice in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. Today, the court formally acknowledged the chargesheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler. This chargesheet pertains to his alleged involvement in the Pul Bangash killings during the tragic events of 1984. The court, acting on the CBI’s submission, has issued a summons to Jagdish Tytler and directed him to appear before the court on August 5.
The 1984 anti-Sikh riots remain one of the darkest chapters in India’s history, where thousands of innocent Sikh lives were lost in the aftermath of the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards. Among the heartbreaking incidents was the Pul Bangash area in Delhi, where on November 1, 1984, three Sikhs lost their lives and a gurdwara was set ablaze.
According to the CBI’s chargesheet, it is alleged that Jagdish Tytler played a significant role in inciting and provoking the mob that had gathered at the Pul Bangash Gurdwara in Azad Market. The consequences of this provocation were devastating, leading to the tragic deaths of three Sikhs, identified as Thakur Singh, Badal Singh, and Guru Charan Singh, as well as the destruction of the gurdwara.
The charges brought against Jagdish Tytler by the CBI include Sections 147 (rioting), 109 (abetment) read with 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), among others. This development marks a crucial milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families who have endured a long and painful wait for accountability.
Reacting to the court’s decision, Manjinder Singh Sirsa expressed his belief in the triumph of truth. In a tweet, he stated, “Justice after 39 years: Delhi court takes cognizance of a chargesheet filed against Jagdish Tytler in connection with alleged Pul Bangash killings during 1984 Sikh Carnage. Delhi Court has summoned Jagdish Tytler on August 5. The TRUTH shall triumph, and Jagdish Tytler, who was protected by Gandhi Family since 1984, will soon be behind bars for his barbaric crimes.”
As the court proceedings advance, the nation will be keenly watching to see how this case unfolds. The victims’ families, the Sikh community, and the nation as a whole are hopeful that justice will finally be served, bringing closure to a painful chapter in history and reaffirming the principles of accountability and the rule of law.
