AMRITSAR SAHIB—The 17 youth prisoners who were released from Dubai’s jail today returned to their roots and paid homage at Harmandir Sahib. The youth pledged to keep unshorn hair and adhere to the principles of the Sikh religion.
These youth were arrested and lodged in Sharjah in relation with the murder of Misri Khan, a Pakistani. The Sharjah Criminal Court had awarded them capital punishment two years ago. Their release was made possible with attempts of Surinderpal Singh Oberoi who collected and paid “blood money” to the family of the victim. The court had accepted the compromise and instead sentenced the youth to two years imprisonment.
These youth attended the concluding ceremony of Akhand Path Sahib at G. Dukh Bhanji Sahib. After a speech by Bhai Baldev Singh of Akhand Kirtani Jatha International and Dharam Parchar Committee of SGPC, these youth pledged to follow the principles of Sikhi and take amrit at Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
The return of these youth was cherished by their family members as they saw them coming home from the gallows of death. These youth had to undergo two years imprisonment in Dubai for the brawl with Misri Khan and his associates that resulted in his murder. Forensic reports suggested that Khan was under influence of alcohol at the time of the brawl.
More details about this case can be found here: http://www.notrequiredindians.com/pdf/The%20First%20Defense.pdf
Although these youth were released, as per sources, thousands of Punjabis and Indians remain lodged in jails in UAE and/or forced into labour camps.
