MEHTA CHOWK: The 42nd martyrdom anniversary of the Third Ghallughara (June 1984) was observed today at Gurdwara Gurdarshan Parkash, Mehta, the headquarters of Damdami Taksal, under the leadership of Damdami Taksal chief Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale. A massive congregation gathered to pay homage to the martyrs who laid down their lives during the events of June 1984.
SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami commended Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa for continuously guiding the Sikh community through the promotion of Gurbani, Sikh identity, and Panthic principles. He stated that Damdami Taksal enjoys a strong influence both in India and abroad and continues to play a vital role in
Advocate Dhami emphasized the need for Sikh unity and strongly advocated efforts for the release of Sikh prisoners. Describing Sant Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale as a transformative personality, he said Bhindranwale inspired countless young people to embrace Sikh teachings and discipline.
Referring to June 1984, Dhami said that Sant Bhindranwale and his associates displayed extraordinary courage while defending Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Sri Darbar Sahib, carrying forward the legacy of Sikh martyrs such as Baba Deep Singh Ji.
DSGMC President Harmeet Singh Kalka strongly advocated the release of Sikh prisoners and expressed concern over alleged illegal religious conversions in Punjab. He assured SGPC of full cooperation from the Delhi Committee in matters concerning Sikh interests and suggested the formation of a joint committee to further strengthen Sikh religious outreach and educational initiatives.
Girish Mahajan, Maharashtra’s Water Resources Minister, who attended on behalf of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, described June 6 as a dark chapter in Sikh history that should never be forgotten. He criticized the military operation conducted at Sri Harmandir Sahib and Sri Akal Takht Sahib and expressed condolences for the loss of innocent lives. He also highlighted efforts undertaken by the Maharashtra government for the welfare and development of the Sikh community in the state.
The internationally attended event witnessed a large Panthic assembly comprising prominent saints, religious leaders, representatives and office-bearers of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), Nihang Singh organizations, and numerous social, religious, and political personalities from across India and abroad.
The overwhelming participation of Sikh devotees, who arrived in large numbers to honor the martyrs, reflected their continued faith in Damdami Taksal’s commitment to
During the event, Bhai Ishar Singh, son of Sant Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, along with families of martyrs and Sikh prisoners, was honored. This year's “Seva Ratan Award” was presented to Sant Baba Ram Singh Rishikesh for his distinguished services.
Addressing the congregation, Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa said that after the era of the Sikh Gurus, few Sikh personalities have received as much reverence and respect from the Sikh community as Sant Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale. He described Bhindranwale as a rare combination of courage, spirituality, selflessness, and devotion, blessed with exceptional qualities.
Referring to the events of June 1984, Sant Harnam Singh stated that the military action carried out under the then Congress government led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi targeted Sri Darbar Sahib, Sri Akal Takht Sahib, and dozens of other gurdwaras. He said that the Sikh defenders, including members of Damdami Taksal, resisted with determination and embraced martyrdom rather than submit to force.