Archive · 3 Jun 2025
Talks Stall Over Operation Bluestar Commemoration
Two important Sikh groups, Damdami Taksal and SGPC, can't agree on how to remember Operation Bluestar, a sad event from 1984.
Damdami Taksal wants to lead the ceremony, while SGPC wants to help.
They disagree about whether a specific religious leader can speak at the event.
Other Sikh groups are backing Damdami Taksal.
Meanwhile, a holy book damaged in 1984 is being shown in the Golden Temple.
A meeting between Damdami Taksal and SGPC ended without a resolution regarding the upcoming Ghallughara commemoration.
Damdami Taksal wants SGPC to limit its role to facilitation.
A key point of contention is the SGPC's position on the Akal Takht Jathedar officiating.
Other Sikh organizations support Damdami Taksal's stance.
A bullet-struck Guru Granth Sahib saroop was put on display in the Golden Temple complex.
- Who
- Damdami Taksal chief Baba Harnam Singh Khalsa and SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami
- What
- Talks between Damdami Taksal and SGPC over Operation Bluestar commemoration ended in deadlock.
- When
- Talks occurred, with resumption scheduled for May 4th.
- Where
- Amritsar, India
- Why
- Disagreement over SGPC's role and Akal Takht Jathedar's involvement in the upcoming Ghallughara (Operation Bluestar) commemoration.
SGPC's Position
Damdami Taksal's Position
Role of SGPC
SGPC's Position
SGPC's role is not purely managerial.
Damdami Taksal's Position
SGPC should only facilitate, not lead, the commemoration.
Akal Takht Jathedar's Role
SGPC's Position
The SGPC supports Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj.
Damdami Taksal's Position
They oppose Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj delivering a message.
- Organizations Involved
- Damdami Taksal, SGPC, Sant Samaj, Sikh federations, Nihang groups
- Event
- Ghallughara (Operation Bluestar) commemoration
- Key People
- Baba Harnam Singh Khalsa, Harjinder Singh Dhami, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale (historical)
- Date of Operation Bluestar
- 1984
- Contention
- SGPC's role in the event, and the officiating Akal Takht Jathedar