Operation Sindoor: Why Pak Army is deliberately targeting Sikhs?

Pakistan army

(RSSFACTS is a column that demystifies the functioning, organisational structure and ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.) 

The present conflict between India and Pakistan and the latter’s unsuccessful attempt to target the Holy City of Amritsar through missiles/drones in addition to destroying a Gurudwara at Poonch and killing several Sikh devotees in shelling from across the border brings back the memories of Muslim League goons and their conspiracies against Sikhs.

It evokes painful memories of the 1947 Partition. During that period, Muslim League-led mobs targeted Sikhs and Hindus, leading to widespread violence and atrocities.

The Muslim League, under the leadership of Mohammad Ali Jinnah, founded Pakistan and was responsible for orchestrating attacks on religious minorities. In 1947, Muslim League cadres attempted to attack the Golden Temple in Amritsar twice. The first attempt occurred on March 6, 1947, when a mob led by Muslim National Guards advanced towards the sacred site. However, they were repelled by a group of RSS volunteers, known as swayamsevaks, who defended the temple with determination.

The second attack took place on March 9, 1947, when armed Muslim National Guards advanced from multiple directions towards the Golden Temple. Despite the presence of a few unarmed sewadars and trapped pilgrims, RSS swayamsevaks mobilized swiftly, taking positions in every lane to protect the sacred site. Their coordinated efforts and counterattacks forced the attackers to retreat, saving the Darbar Sahib from destruction.

During the Partition, Sikhs and Hindus united to defend their honour and lives. Post-independence, they coexisted peacefully, contributing significantly to India's growth. Sikhs played a pivotal role in defending India during the 1965 and 1971 wars. Notably, in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Lt. General Jagjit Singh Aurora, a proud Sikh officer, accepted the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers, marking a significant moment in India's military history.

The recent attacks by Pakistan on Sikh religious sites and the targeting of Sikh devotees are reminiscent of past hostilities. These actions underscore the enduring challenges faced by Sikhs and the need for vigilance and unity in safeguarding their heritage and rights.

The historical context of these events highlights the deep-rooted tensions and the importance of acknowledging and addressing the grievances of the Sikh community. It is essential to foster understanding, reconciliation, and respect for all communities to ensure lasting peace and harmony in the region.

Earlier RSSFACTS columns can be read here.