A Delhi court on Wednesday delivered a guilty verdict against Congress MP Sajjan Kumar in connection with the murders of two individuals in Saraswati Vihar during the anti-Sikh riots of 1984. The case, which has been ongoing for several years, marks a significant development in the long-standing pursuit of justice for the victims of communal violence.
Special Judge Kaveri Baweja presided over the case and issued the conviction order, setting February 18 as the date for arguments on sentencing. Kumar, who has been incarcerated in Tihar Jail, was brought before the court for the pronouncement of the judgment.
The case pertains to the brutal killings of Jaswant Singh and his son, Tarundeep Singh, on November 1, 1984, in the aftermath of the assassination of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Initially, the case was registered at the Punjabi Bagh police station, but it was later transferred to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for a more thorough probe into the events.
On December 16, 2021, the court found sufficient evidence to frame charges against Kumar, determining that there was a “prima facie” case against him. The prosecution argued that on the fateful day, an enraged mob, armed with deadly weapons, engaged in widespread violence, including looting, arson, and destruction of properties belonging to Sikh families as an act of retribution for Gandhi’s assassination.
The mob reportedly stormed the residence of the complainant, who was Jaswant Singh’s wife. The attackers not only looted their belongings and set their house on fire but also killed her husband and son in the ensuing violence. The prosecution maintained that Kumar played a crucial role in leading and instigating the rioters.
During the trial, the court found compelling material evidence supporting the claim that Kumar was not merely an observer but an active participant in orchestrating the attack. Based on this evidence, the court concluded that he had a direct role in leading the violent mob, thereby holding him accountable for the grave offenses committed during the riots.
The verdict stands as a pivotal moment in the legal battle seeking justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, and the forthcoming sentencing hearing on February 18 will determine the punishment to be imposed on Kumar.
