4 June 1984 (Attack On Harmandir Sahib)

By Kirti Yadav

4 June, 1984

June 4, 1984, marks a significant and tragic event in Sikh history known as Operation Blue Star. It was a military operation ordered by the Indian Government to remove Sikh militants who had taken refuge in the Golden Temple complex in AMRITSAR, Punjab.

The operation, which lasted from June 1st to June 8th , involved the Indian Army, led by lieutenant General Kuldip Singh Brar, storming the Golden Temple complex. The complex, revered as the holiest shrine in Sikkhism, was heavily fortified by the militants led by Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale KHALSA Ji. The operation resulted in heavy casualities on both sides , including civilian casualities, and caused significant damage to the AKAL TAKHT, a key sikh institution within the complex.

The operation deeply wounded the Sikh community leading to widespread protests and unrest, not only in Punjab but also among sikhs worldwide. It intensified the feelings of alienation and mistrust between the sikh community and the Indian Government, ultimately culminating in the assasination of Prime Minsiter Indira Gandhi by her sikh bodyguards Beant Singh and Satpal Singh in that year.

The wounds of Operation Blue Star continue to influence Sikh politics and identity, shaping the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice in India.  

By Kirti Yadav