Reopening Old Wounds: Why Is the Union Home Minister Stirring Hindu-Sikh Relations?
||Black and White Digital News||
||Tejveer Singh March 23,2025||
In a nation striving for unity, the recent statement by Union Home Minister Amit Shah has raised serious concerns about the BJP’s ideological clarity and its stance on Punjab’s historical narratives. His remarks, referring to Amritpal Singh as a “wannabe Bhindranwale” who is now “peacefully reciting Guru Granth Sahib in Assam jail,” are not just unwarranted but deeply disturbing. Why is the Home Minister resurrecting a historical chapter that had long been settled, especially in a manner that can disturb the delicate Hindu-Sikh harmony?
Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale: A Misunderstood Figure:
The repeated misrepresentation of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in political discourse shows a lack of understanding—or a deliberate attempt to distort history. Unlike the narrative peddled by certain factions, Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was neither a terrorist nor an anti-India figure. He was a spiritual leader who fought for the genuine rights of Punjab and the Sikh community. His association with the Dharamyudh Morcha, launched alongside Akali Dal and the SGPC, was aimed at implementing the Anandpur Sahib Resolution, a document that primarily sought greater autonomy for Punjab within the Indian framework, the promotion of Punjabi language and culture, and the safeguarding of Sikh identity and religious institutions.
Yet, the Congress-led government of Indira Gandhi painted him as a militant to justify Operation Bluestar—an attack on the holiest Sikh shrine, Sri Harmandir Sahib, that was widely condemned for its brutality. Several independent analysts, including General S.K. Sinha, have documented in their books how Sant Bhindranwale was in a defensive position, and the military action was politically orchestrated to secure votes in the 1984 elections. Notably, even prominent BJP leaders like Ram Jethmalani and Subramanian Swamy have acknowledged in multiple interviews that Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was a “Saint” and was wrongly vilified.
BJP’s Ideological Confusion on Bhindranwale:
The inconsistency in the BJP’s narrative on Sant Bhindranwale raises an important question: Why is the ruling party unclear about its stance on him? On one hand, senior leaders from the BJP have openly spoken about Bhindranwale’s innocence, while on the other, the current leadership continues to use his name in a derogatory manner. Amit Shah’s statement not only contradicts the previous stand of his own party leaders but also disrespects Sikh sentiments by sarcastically invoking Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in a political context.
Such a statement is not just insensitive but inflammatory. It raises concerns about whether the BJP is deliberately reigniting old wounds for political gains. In a time when the Sikh community has contributed immensely to the nation in various capacities—from defending borders to strengthening the economy—why is the government indulging in rhetoric that can deepen the fault lines?
Why Reopen History’s Painful Chapters?
The Sikh community, along with the nation, has moved forward from the events of 1984. The wounds of Operation Bluestar and the anti-Sikh riots remain fresh in the minds of many, but reopening these chapters in a political discourse serves no constructive purpose. By bringing up Sant Bhindranwale’s name in an unrelated context, Amit Shah is not just distorting history but also creating unnecessary friction at a time when unity should be the goal.
Bygone is bygone. It is the responsibility of national leaders to heal wounds, not reopen them. The Home Minister should have deeply reflected on the implications of his words before making such a statement. Instead of focusing on winning people’s hearts and fostering peace, such remarks serve only to polarize and sow discord.
The Sikh Community Deserves Respect, Not Mockery:
One of the most objectionable aspects of Shah’s statement is his sarcastic reference to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. This is not just a political issue—it is a matter of deep religious sentiment. The sacred scripture of the Sikhs is beyond any political debate, and using it in a mocking tone is unacceptable. The Home Minister of a secular country should exercise the highest degree of caution while speaking about religious matters, especially when it concerns a community that has a history of immense sacrifices for the nation.
A Call for Reconciliation, Not Division:
The government must rethink its approach towards Punjab and the Sikh community. If Amit Shah truly seeks national unity, his words should be aimed at reconciliation, not division. The Sikh community has always stood for justice, righteousness, and the defense of the nation, from the times of Guru Gobind Singh Ji to the present day. Instead of fueling unnecessary controversies, the focus should be on addressing the real issues Punjab faces—economic development, drug eradication, and youth empowerment.
History cannot be rewritten, but its lessons can be used to build a better future. The Home Minister’s statement has caused unnecessary controversy, but the government still has time to rectify the situation. The BJP leadership must clarify its stand on Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and ensure that political rhetoric does not come at the cost of national unity. It is time to respect history, honor sacrifices, and work towards a future where all communities feel valued and respected.
