Why November 1? BJP to Hold Protest Over 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots, Questions Congress Rally Timing

The BJP is organising a protest march in Delhi today, accusing the Congress of hurting the sentiments of the Sikh community by choosing the anniversary period of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots for its 'Chalo Dilli' march and rally at Ramlila Maidan.

The protest is being held in Hari Nagar, a Sikh-dominated area in West Delhi, and is being joined by several Sikh organisations. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri is leading the march, Delhi BJP president and Union Minister Harsh Malhotra said.

Malhotra said the Sikh community wants the Congress to apologise for the violence before attempting to relaunch Rahul Gandhi politically. He described the decision to hold the rally on November 1 as insensitive, arguing that the date carries painful memories for thousands of Sikh families.

The 1984 anti-Sikh violence erupted following the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984. Between October 31 and November 3, thousands of Sikhs were killed, while homes and businesses were attacked, looted and set on fire. The BJP has accused Congress workers of involvement in the massacre and said the party must take responsibility for the events.

Malhotra claimed that several Sikh leaders and representatives of Sikh institutions had approached BJP leaders over the past 10 days, seeking support in raising the community's concerns.

He also criticised the Congress rally on economic and logistical grounds, saying traders in Delhi fear traffic congestion and business disruptions during the Diwali week due to the expected arrival of thousands of vehicles from outside the city.

The BJP's protest march adds another political flashpoint to the Congress's November 1 mobilisation in the national capital.