Hundreds of devotees, members of various Sikh organisations, political activists, and representatives of hardline Sikh groups assembled at the Akal Takht on Saturday to commemorate the June 1984 events associated with Operation Blue Star.
Observance Begins with Akhand Path and Kirtan
The observance began with the bhog of an Akhand Path at the Akal Takht, followed by Gurbani Kirtan as part of the annual remembrance programme. Large numbers of devotees continued to arrive at the Golden Temple complex throughout the morning to participate in the event.
Annual Remembrance Programme
The religious congregation, organised to mark the anniversary of what many Sikhs refer to as the June 1984 Ghallughara, witnessed the participation of Sikh groups from different parts of Punjab and beyond.
Extensive security arrangements were put in place in and around the Golden Temple complex and adjoining areas. Punjab Police personnel, along with other security agencies, were deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order and ensure the smooth conduct of the programme.
Shabad Kirtan and Homage
The congregation continued with Shabad Kirtan, while devotees offered prayers and paid homage to those who lost their lives during the military operation carried out at the Golden Temple complex in June 1984.
Acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht, Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, is scheduled to address the gathering after the annual Ardas (prayer), which is expected to draw a large turnout of devotees and Sikh leaders.
Authorities remained on alert amid the annual observance, which is considered one of the most significant events on the Sikh religious and political calendar. The programme was continuing peacefully at the time of filing this report.
