Court Finds Enough Evidence to Charge Congress Leader Jagdish Tytler in 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots Case
New Delhi: In a significant development, a Delhi court has directed the framing of charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Tytler, accused of being involved in the murders of Thakur Singh, Badal Singh, and Gurcharan Singh outside the Pul Bangash gurdwara, is facing multiple charges, including murder and incitement to riot.
Charges Against Tytler
The court has ordered the framing of formal charges on September 13, which include:
- Murder
- Provocation with intent to cause a riot
- Unlawful assembly
- Rioting
- Defiling a place of worship
- Abetment
- Mischief by fire
- Theft
Tytler, who is currently out on bail, will be required to appear in court on that date to enter a plea of ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty.’
CBI’s Case Against Tytler
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a chargesheet against Tytler in May 2022, accusing him of “inciting, instigating, and provoking the mob” during the riots that followed the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The CBI’s case is built on eyewitness testimonies that place Tytler at the scene, allegedly encouraging the violence.
One key witness reported seeing Tytler, then a Member of Parliament, leading a mob armed with petrol canisters, sticks, swords, and rods. Another witness claimed to have seen Tytler emerging from a white Ambassador car and instructing the mob to carry out his orders.
Tytler’s Defense
Jagdish Tytler has consistently denied any involvement in the riots, stating that there is not a “single piece of evidence” against him. In August 2022, he declared, “If there is evidence against me, I’m prepared to hang myself.” Tytler has maintained his innocence, claiming that the accusations against him are baseless.
Despite the charges, Tytler expressed regret over the riots, stating, “I will apologize because it happened during our time. I would apologize a thousand times for what happened to the Sikhs… It was shameful.”
Historical Context and Political Fallout
The 1984 anti-Sikh riots were triggered by the assassination of Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards, following the controversial ‘Operation Blue Star.’ The riots resulted in the deaths of thousands of Sikhs, leading to widespread condemnation.
Tytler’s case has been a focal point for criticism against the Congress party, with rivals accusing the party of shielding its leaders. Despite being cleared by the CBI on three previous occasions, the court ordered further investigation, leading to the current charges.
In 2012, then-Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh publicly apologized for the riots, expressing deep regret on behalf of the nation. Subsequent apologies from Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi have also acknowledged the party’s responsibility.
Tytler’s Bail and Court Conditions
Jagdish Tytler is currently out on bail, granted by a sessions court on a bond and surety of ₹1 lakh each. The court has imposed conditions on him, including a prohibition on tampering with evidence or leaving the country without permission.
Conclusion
As Jagdish Tytler prepares to face formal charges in court, the case continues to stir political and social debates. The court’s decision to frame charges marks a significant moment in the ongoing quest for justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.