BJP Protests Against Congress Over 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots in Delhi

In a significant political event in New Delhi, the BJP staged a protest against Congress, coinciding with the anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The rally, led by prominent BJP leaders, aimed to highlight alleged disrespect shown by Congress towards the victims of the riots. As thousands of supporters marched through Sikh-populated areas, they called for accountability and an apology from Congress. The protest raised questions about the timing of Congress's own rally on the same day, intensifying the political tensions in the capital. This event underscores the ongoing discourse surrounding the legacy of the 1984 riots and the political narratives that continue to shape Indian politics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 1, 2026, 17:52 IST

Political Tensions Rise in Delhi

In New Delhi, a significant political event unfolded as the INDIA coalition organized a massive rally at Ramleela Maidan, protesting alleged discrepancies in the voter list. Concurrently, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held a large protest march in West Delhi, focusing on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and targeting the Congress party.

BJP leaders accused Congress of showing disrespect to the victims of the 1984 violence by scheduling their political rally on the same day, demanding an apology from the party.

Details of the Protest March

The protest march commenced from the Hari Nagar bus depot and covered approximately one kilometer, concluding at the Tilak Nagar metro station. Central Cabinet Minister Hardeep Singh Puri led the march, emphasizing that the violence that erupted on November 1, 1984, was not a spontaneous event but a calculated conspiracy and a 'massacre.'

He pointed out that the violence was incited following the assassination of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which led to crimes against Sikhs that courts have classified as 'crimes against humanity.' Puri questioned why Congress and opposition parties chose this particular date for their rally.

BJP Workers Rally with Flags

During the protest, thousands of BJP supporters were seen carrying the national flag and party banners. They held placards blaming Congress leadership and the Gandhi family for the 1984 riots, vocally expressing their discontent.

Among the prominent attendees were Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Cabinet Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ashish Sood, and Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra. Chief Minister Gupta, who wore a black armband to signify protest, stated that millions of Sikhs were forced to flee for their lives during that tragic period.

She accused Congress of exploiting this sorrowful day for political gain, alleging that Rahul Gandhi is fostering chaos to achieve power.

Tribute to Victims of the 1984 Riots

Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra articulated that the primary aim of the march was to pay tribute to the 2,733 innocent lives lost in the 1984 Sikh massacre and to unveil the true face of Congress to the public. He alleged that Congress leaders had identified targeted homes during the riots and deliberately scheduled their rally on this significant date.

Currently, the BJP awaits a response from the Congress party regarding these allegations.