AMRITSAR: In a predawan Swoop the security forces searched the inns and other buildings in the Golden Temple arresting more than 100 persons and recovering a small quantity of arms and ammunition including one hand grenade one shot gun and 55 cartridges.

The D.I.G. Mr. A Siddiqui told newsmen that security forces did not enter the Parkarma and other holy places in the Complex.

The S.S.P. Azhar Alam said that 75 old men women and children were let off after half an hours detention. Those rounded up were being screened.

The possibility of security forces entering the Parkarma could not have been ruled out if the ALS.S.F Convention scheduled for June 26 had not been cancelled. The preemptive action by the security forces had thwarted the holding of Congregation of June 6 which was to be held to commemorate the anniversary of Operation Blue Star. To prevent People from attending the convention curfew was imposed in whole of Amritsar City.

Siddiqui said a battalion of C.R.P.F along with Punjab Police took part in the action. Some private houses boarding the complex were also searched. The police however admitted that information to the freedom fighters is Often leaked out when such operations are planned The freedom fighters either leave the place or take shelter in the Parkarma. There was however no resistance to the Police action on June 26.

A “Tribune” correspondent visited the Complex at mid-May. It bore a deserted look. The C.R.P.F. occupied A.L.S.S.F. office and also the office of Akal Takht manned by Damdami Taksal Even on the road dividing the S.G.P.C. office and Manji Sahib Diwan Hall and Guru Ram Das Langar Hall the security forces were seen ling.

Siddiqui said that the road was a thorough lane. That was evident from the municipal records. The security forces continued patrolling on this road at least for the next two days.

The reason why this area looked deserted was that S.G.P.C had Moved its offices as a protest: against police entry. The press note issued by S.G.P.C says that the police occupation of the complex amounted to direct interference in the religious and administrative affairs which is unthinkable. The consequences arising out of which would be serious and the blame would squarely rest with the Govt.

Article extracted from this publication >> July 3, 1992