PUNE, India—The Sikh community in Pune hit the streets in large numbers on Sunday, seeking justice for the victims of 1984 genocide. Holding banners and raising slogans, the protesters pointed out that hundreds of Sikhs were killed in the pogrom but the real perpetrators of the crime had been let off. The rally started from Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar and culminated at Rani Laxmibai Udyan.
“When we protest, we are thrown in jails, but those who hurt us are still alive and living a comfortable life,” said Jarnail Singh, a social worker who came to the city from Delhi to join the protest.
Singh said while the culprits for the 2002 riots had already been punished, the victims of 1984 genocide were still waiting for justice. “There has been a miscarriage of justice for 29 long years. By staging protests, we are trying to create pressure to help bring justice to families whose near and dear ones were butchered for no fault of theirs,” said one of the protesters. They said a letter had also been sent to the President seeking justice.
The Sikh community drew support from Aam Aadmi Party for Sunday’s protest. A similar protest was held in Mumbai and other cities of the country.
