Chandigarh: Mr. Jagjit Singh Rode provided un necessary provocations to the government of India at a public meeting addressed by him in connection with Martyrdom of two sons of Guru Gobind Singh at Fatehgarh Sahib. The meeting was organised by A.LS.S.F. and Damdami Taksal jointly where Baba Joginder Singh and Bibi Bimla Khalsa were also invited.

The attendance of the meeting was most impressive despite bad weather. The Dewan organised by Akali Dal! (Longowal) was insignificant as compared to A. SF. and Taksaal show. Common Sikhs in thousands were attracted to the Taksaal show. Even the officially organised show by Mr. Tohra in memory of Beant Singh was a tame affair.

Most other speakers spoke in sober tones highlighting the Sikh issues. Mr. Jagjit Singh in a provocative statement described Mr. Rajiv Gandhi as the greatest extremist who deserves to be exterminated if extremism and terrorism were to be ended, “Some Singh will do the needful” Mr. Jagjit Singh stated provocatively. Most of the Sikhs did not like Mr. Jagiit Singh’s remarks. They thought that the call for murder was contrary to Sikh ethos and present day realities. He conveniently ignored more important issues such as the need for collective leadership, including the demand for restoration of Sikh liberties and constitutional rights.

Baba Joginder Singh in a brief address demanded the release of Sikh detunes and said that the failure of the government to do so by January 20th would invite the wrath of Sikh masses. Mrs. Khalsa declared that Sikhs were not terrorists or extremists. They were only fighting for their rights. It was strange she said that Punjab government has failed to set up a judicial commission to enquire into the murder of innocent people during the last four years. Although Sant Harchand Singh Longowal had made such promises why is the Chief Minister feeling shy in putting into practice such promises. Mrs. Khalsa said the Sikh leaders have failed. It was up to Sangat to take over leadership. She advised the Sikhs to strengthen AISSF and Taksaal who were really devoted to the Sikh cause. All other individual leaders are unqualified to lead the Sikhs,

Article extracted from this publication >> January 10, 1986