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Context

• On the solemn occasion of the 40th anniversary of 'Operation Bluestar', the Golden Temple complex in Punjab's Amritsar witnessed a poignant display of remembrance and activism.

The History of Khalistan Movement: From Partition to Militancy

Context of Partition and Sikh Discontent

• The idea of Khalistan arose post-Partition, which divided Punjab, the heartland of Sikhism, into two, leading to a sense of loss among Indian Sikhs.
• Cultural and religiously significant cities like Lahore and Nankana Sahib went to Pakistan, fostering sentiments of deprivation among Sikhs.

Administrative Grievances and Calls for Autonomy

• Discontent over administrative issues, including river water sharing, fueled demands for autonomy and later, for a sovereign Sikh state.
• The division of Punjab into Hindi-speaking Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjabi-speaking Punjab further intensified Sikh separatist sentiments.

Emergence of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale

• Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale emerged as a prominent figure, positioning himself as the voice of Sikhs amidst political uncertainty.
• Initially courted by Congress to counter Shiromani Akali Dal, Bhindranwale's radicalization and militant activities escalated tensions.

The Buildup to Operation Bluestar

Escalating Violence and Resistance

• Bhindranwale's civil disobedience movement, Dharam Yudh Morcha, led to his refuge in the Akal Takht within the Golden Temple complex.
• Acts of violence, including the murder of Deputy Inspector-General of Police A S Atwal, signaled the intensification of the conflict.

Government Intervention and Preparation

• Despite efforts for dialogue, escalating violence prompted the government to intervene militarily.
• Months of preparation by Bhindranwale's forces turned the Golden Temple complex into a heavily fortified stronghold.

Operation Bluestar

Commencement of Operation

• The operation commenced on the night of June 5, 1984, with the objective of neutralizing Bhindranwale and his armed supporters.
• The complex operation faced initial challenges due to the heavily defended positions within the Golden Temple.

Intense Combat and Tank Support

• The troops faced fierce resistance from militants strategically positioned within the complex.
• Tank support was eventually deployed, resulting in significant structural damage and casualties.

Aftermath and Continued Turmoil

Casualties and Controversies

• Official figures cite casualties among militants, civilians, and government forces, but the actual toll remains contested.
• Questions regarding the military's actions, including allegations of inadequate warnings and civilian casualties, persist.

Political Ramifications

• The assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards in October 1984 triggered widespread anti-Sikh riots.
• The event elevated Bhindranwale's status, fueling further violence and prolonging the Punjab insurgency well into the 1990s.

Conclusion: Legacy of Operation Bluestar

• Operation Bluestar remains a contentious chapter in Indian history, with its repercussions echoing in political, social, and communal spheres.
• The military intervention, intended to quell separatist sentiments, inadvertently fueled further unrest, underscoring the complexities of addressing ethnic and regional grievances.

MUST READ ARTICLES ON KHALISTAN ISSUE:

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/india-canada-relations-hit-a-low

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/khalistan-movement

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/khalistan-movement-9

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/khalistan#:~:text=The%20Khalistan%20movement%20is%20a,places%20and%20amongst%20different%20populations.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  Discuss the historical and socio-political factors leading to the emergence of the Khalistan movement in India. Assess the significance of Operation Bluestar in shaping the trajectory of Sikh separatism and its aftermath on Indian politics and society.