Today, On 12th February, Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar has been found guilty in a case related to the 1984 Anti-Sikh riots. The case involves the killings of Jaswant Singh and his son Tarundeep Singh on November 1, 1984. The court’s verdict is a significant step in delivering justice for the victims of the riots. Further legal proceedings are expected following this conviction.
New Delhi: A Delhi court convicted Congress MP Sajjan Kumar on Wednesday in connection with the murders of two individuals during the anti-Sikh riots in the Saraswati Vihar area.
Special Judge Kaveri Baweja issued the conviction and scheduled sentencing arguments for February 18.
Kumar was brought to court from Tihar Jail for the announcement of the verdict. The case pertains to the killings of Jaswant Singh and his son Tarundeep Singh on November 1, 1984. Initially registered by the Punjabi Bagh police station, the case was later taken over by a special investigation team.
On December 16, 2021, the court framed charges against Kumar after determining that there was a “prima facie” case against him. The prosecution argued that a large mob, armed with deadly weapons, engaged in widespread looting, arson, and destruction of Sikh properties in retaliation for the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The mob reportedly attacked the home of the complainant, Jaswant’s wife, resulting in the deaths of her husband and son while also looting and burning their house. The court’s order found enough evidence to establish a “prima facie opinion” that Kumar was not only a participant but had also led the mob.
The case was first investigated by Punjabi Bagh police but was later handed over to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further inquiry. On December 16, 2021, the court framed charges against Kumar, saying there was “prima facie” evidence that he not only took part in the attack but also led the mob.
Previously, in May 2020, the Supreme Court had denied Sajjan Kumar interim bail or parole on health grounds. Both Kumar and Khokhar are currently incarcerated in Tihar jail following their convictions by the Delhi High Court on December 17, 2018.
Case Title: Sajjan Kumar v. State; Balwan Khokhar v. Central Bureau of Investigation [Crl.A. No. 1642/2018 & Crl.A. No. 1665-1666/2019]
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