1984 Riots Victims’ Families Seek Rahul Gandhi’s Apology Over Sajjan Kumar Remarks

Several Sikh leaders and families affected by the 1984 anti-Sikh riots staged a protest outside Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s residence in the national capital on Saturday, demanding an apology over alleged remarks by Congress leaders describing former party leader Sajjan Kumar as a “hero” and “role model.”

The protest was organised by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) and led by its president Harmeet Singh Kalka and general secretary Jagdeep Singh Kahlon. The protesters gathered outside Gandhi’s residence at 5, Sunehri Bagh Road, where heavy police barricading was put in place.

Sajjan Kumar, a former Congress leader who was convicted in a case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, died on Thursday. His death was followed by controversy over statements allegedly made by Congress leaders regarding his legacy.

A DSGMC leader questioned whether the Congress considered Kumar a “hero” despite his conviction in cases linked to the riots. He demanded that Rahul Gandhi clarify the party’s position and apologise to the Sikh community.

Referring to a statement attributed to Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda, the DSGMC said the remarks had deeply hurt the sentiments of Sikh families who had suffered during the violence. The protesters maintained that the issue had reopened painful memories decades after the riots.

“Forty-two years later, the wounds of our families have been reopened,” a DSGMC leader said, calling upon Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders to acknowledge the community’s concerns and issue an apology.

The DSGMC had earlier announced the protest, alleging that the Congress had once again referred to Sajjan Kumar as a “role model” despite allegations surrounding the 1984 violence.

The protesters said they would continue seeking accountability and a clear response from the Congress leadership over the remarks.