1984 Sikh Riots: Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar Convicted after 40 years

 New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu):A Delhi court has convicted former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar in connection with the 1984 Sikh riots, specifically for the murder of two individuals in the Saraswati Vihar area. This conviction brings justice to the victims, who have been waiting for accountability for 40 years. The Sikh community is celebrating this significant legal outcome, marking a long-awaited moment of justice. Sajjan Kumar has been found guilty in the case involving the murders of two people during the violence that erupted in the wake of Indira Gandhi’s assassination. The court's verdict has sparked a wave of relief and happiness among those affected by the tragic events of 1984. Sajjan Kumar, who is currently incarcerated in Tihar Central Jail, appeared before the court via videoconferencing.

The court had reserved its judgment after hearing the final arguments in the case concerning the killings of Jaswant Singh and his son, Tarundeep Singh, on November 1, 1984. Initially, the Punjabi Bagh police station had registered the case, but a special investigation team later took over the inquiry.On December 16, 2021, the court framed charges against Kumar, establishing a "prima facie" case against him. The prosecution claimed that a large, armed mob engaged in widespread looting, arson and destruction of Sikh properties in retaliation for the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The mob attacked the residence of the complainant, Jaswant Singh's wife, killing both Jaswant Singh and their son while also looting their belongings and setting their home on fire. The court, in putting Kumar on trial, determined there was sufficient evidence to form a "prima facie" opinion that he not only participated in the violence but also played a key role in leading the mob.