New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): A Delhi court on Thursday cleared former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar of charges connected to alleged incidents of violence in the Janakpuri and Vikaspuri areas during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The decision brings an end to this particular case, which examined accusations of provocation and unrest in parts of West Delhi nearly four decades ago.
Special Judge Dig Vinay Singh delivered the verdict in open court, announcing Kumar’s acquittal through a short oral ruling. The court has stated that a detailed judgment explaining the reasoning behind the decision will be issued separately.
The case focused on claims that Kumar had played a role in instigating violence during the riots that erupted following the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. While the prosecution had pursued charges related to rioting and the promotion of communal hostility, the court ultimately ruled in favor of the accused.
Earlier, in August 2023, the trial court had framed charges against Kumar for rioting and fostering enmity between groups. However, at that stage, he was already discharged from allegations of murder and criminal conspiracy in the same matter.
The 1984 anti-Sikh riots continue to be examined through various legal proceedings across the country, with cases resurfacing decades after the events. Thursday’s ruling represents another judicial outcome in the long-running effort to address accountability for the violence that followed one of India’s most traumatic episodes.
