Amritsar (National Times): Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj, the acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, led the Ardas (prayer ceremony) on the solemn occasion of the 41st anniversary of Operation Blue Star today at the Golden Temple complex. The event was marked by heavy security, large gatherings of devotees, and continued protests over his position and role.
The prayer took place despite persistent opposition from various Sikh factions, including Damdami Taksal and Nihang Singh groups, who have contested Gadgaj’s authority to address the Panth (Sikh community) on this emotionally charged day. Critics argue that his appointment did not follow traditional maryada (religious code of conduct).
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday ahead of the observance, Jathedar Gadgaj reflected on the emotional significance of the days from June 1 to June 7.
“These are the days etched in the soul of every Sikh. It was during these days that Sri Harmandir Sahib and Sri Akal Takht Sahib were attacked by the then government. The attack was launched on the martyrdom day of Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji,” he said.
Operation Blue Star, launched in 1984 by the Indian Army to flush out militants from the Golden Temple complex, remains a traumatic chapter in Sikh history. The operation led to numerous casualties, including that of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, the then chief of Damdami Taksal.
Amid visible rifts within the Sikh leadership, Gadgaj emphasized unity among Sikh institutions. “Whether it is Baba Harnam Singh Khalsa, the current chief of Damdami Taksal, or Sikhs from other organizations, we are all Guru brothers,” he said, expressing hope that this year’s anniversary would witness “more peace than ever before.”
The ceremony was held under tight security, with nearly 7,000 personnel deployed across Amritsar to ensure peace during Ghallughara Diwas, the remembrance of those martyred in the 1984 operation. Surveillance drones, police checkpoints, and intelligence teams were active throughout the city.
Despite the protests, the Ardas was completed without disruption, and the SGPC urged devotees to observe the day peacefully and respectfully.
