The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, a protest group demanding the release of Sikh detainees, has completed three years of continuous agitation at the Chandigarh-Mohali border. Marking this somber anniversary, the Morcha has announced a significant escalation of its protest movement, which will now include direct actions against the Punjab unit of the BJP and the shutdown of toll plazas on specific dates.
Three Years of Protest and a Call for Wider Struggle
On Wednesday, members and leaders of the Morcha gathered at their protest site near YPS Chowk to commemorate three years of their persistent sit-in. While addressing the gathering, the leaders provided an update on their cause. They noted that during the three-year protest, three detainees – Bhai Lakhwinder Singh, Bhai Shamsher Singh, and Bhai Gurmeet Singh Engineer – had managed to secure bail.
However, the core issue remains unresolved. The speakers highlighted the prolonged incarceration of other detainees, specifically pointing out that the cases of Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara and Bhai Jagtar Singh Tara have been pending for nearly 15 years. This extended legal limbo, they argued, makes it impossible for the detainees to even seek parole in the absence of concluded trial proceedings.
A key announcement from the anniversary gathering was a formal appeal for broader solidarity. Bapu Gurcharan Singh called upon social, religious, and farmer organisations to officially join the Morcha's struggle. This call was reinforced by leaders like Sukhwinder Singh Sabhrao of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee and Dr Darshan Pal of the Krantikari Kisan Union, who urged farmer bodies and Sikh leaders to participate in the protest at least once every month. The proposal was met with approval from the assembled crowd.
Accusations Against Government and Plan of Action
The speakers at the event launched a sharp critique against the present Punjab government, accusing it of failing to take a principled stand on the issue of detainees who have completed their sentences. A speaker asserted, "The government has not even raised its voice for the release of Bandi Singhs. It is functioning under directions from Delhi and has no respect for the sentiments of Punjabis and the Sikh community."
The Morcha cited the continued incarceration of individuals despite completed sentences and the detention of youths under laws like the National Security Act without trial as clear evidence of central interference in Punjab's affairs.
Outlining their new strategy, the organisers declared that a direct political struggle would now be launched against the Bharatiya Janata Party. They stated that a letter would be sent to the Punjab BJP president, holding the party responsible for the current situation. The agitation will begin with protests at BJP party offices and will extend to demonstrations outside the residences of BJP leaders in the state.
Solidarity and Security Arrangements
The anniversary programme witnessed participation from a cross-section of Punjabi society. Several leaders from farmer unions, labour organisations, religious bodies, and social groups attended the event, demonstrating growing support for the cause.
Anticipating a large turnout, the Punjab administration had made significant security arrangements. A heavy police force, including reserve units drawn from various districts across the state, was deployed around the protest site to maintain law and order.
Looking ahead, the Morcha has announced concrete action dates as part of its escalated agitation. Protests against the Punjab BJP and shutdowns of toll plazas are scheduled for January 12 and January 26, signaling a new, more confrontational phase in their three-year-long struggle for the release of Sikh detainees.
