LUDHIANA, Punjab—Bapu Surat Singh who has been on hunger strike since January 16 is adamant about his demand for the release of Sikh political prisoners who have completed their legal jail terms. He remains under a virtual arrest at the Ludhiana Civil Hospital where police is monitoring activity of the “morcha” closely. Bapu Ji’s health is in critical condition, however he has refused medical interventions.
Sikh Relief, a UK based organization visited Bapu Surat Singh. Sikh Relief stated that the Punjab Government lacked the ‘will’ to seek release of Sikh political prisoners.
Meanwhile, the struggle seems to once again gain momentum. Various Gurdwaras and Sikh institutions in India and abroad have expressed solidarity with the cause. A joint statement was earlier issued by a number of Canadian Gurdwaras in support of Bapu Surat Singh. A press release by Sikh organizations based out of United States is expected to be released soon. Sevadars of the movement have disclosed plans of starting a petition to various Government authorities for the release of Sikh prisoners.
