BJP stages march against 1984 anti-Sikh violence, demands Congress apology

The BJP held a demonstration in the national capital to mark the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, reigniting tensions over one of independent India's most communally sensitive episodes. The march was part of the party's broader political messaging as the INDIA bloc opposition coalition continues to mount challenges against the ruling party.

The violence that erupted across Delhi following Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination by her Sikh bodyguards on October 31, 1984, resulted in widespread communal riots. Thousands of Sikhs were killed in targeted attacks during the subsequent three days, with investigations later revealing involvement of Congress party members and local administration in some incidents.

The BJP has consistently used the 1984 riots as a political issue, holding the Congress responsible for the violence and alleged inaction during the communal breakdown. Wednesday's march reiterated the party's demand for an official apology from the Congress party, which governed India at the time of the riots.

The demonstration comes as both major political coalitions intensify their campaigns ahead of forthcoming electoral contests, with the BJP and opposition alliance staking competing claims on issues of communal harmony and justice for victims of historical violence.