Shimla, Himachal Pradesh / Amritsar, Punjab (National Times): Recent developments in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab have sparked a heated debate, following the appearance of posters and photos of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, the controversial Sikh leader, on buses operated by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). These posters, placed by pro-Khalistan groups such as Dal Khalsa and Sikh Youth of Punjab, have raised tensions between the two states and drawn attention from political and community leaders.
The controversy began when a flag bearing Bhindranwale’s image was removed by local residents in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. This action led to a public outcry, particularly among members of pro-Khalistan groups, who have since escalated their efforts by displaying posters and photos of Bhindranwale on buses traveling from Himachal Pradesh into Punjab. The images have sparked strong reactions from various quarters, with supporters of Bhindranwale praising the move, while others have raised concerns over the potential for increased unrest.
In Himachal Pradesh, the situation has drawn criticism from several political leaders. Former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur has publicly expressed his concerns, calling for a peaceful resolution through dialogue between the states.
The incident has also prompted calls for action from Punjab’s political leadership, with some leaders expressing support for the symbolic gesture made by the pro-Khalistan groups. Others, however, have warned against provoking communal sentiments, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and respecting regional boundaries.
The posters of Bhindranwale, a figure whose legacy remains deeply divisive in Indian politics, have rekindled discussions around the history of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and the subsequent demand for Khalistan. While Bhindranwale remains a revered figure among many Sikh separatists, he is also seen as a polarizing figure due to his role during the turbulent 1980s in Punjab.
The ongoing controversy has not only raised tensions between Himachal Pradesh and Punjab but has also sparked a broader debate on the issue of religious and political symbols in public spaces. With the potential for further protests and demonstrations, political leaders from both states are under increasing pressure to find a solution that ensures both the safety of citizens and the preservation of communal harmony.
As the situation develops, the focus will be on how the governments of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh address the growing tensions and whether dialogue can bridge the divide between the two states. The controversy surrounding the Bhindranwale posters has once again highlighted the complex relationship between symbolism, identity, and politics in the region.
