Operation Blue Star Row: Mahajan’s Remark Sparks Outrage

What Girish Mahajan Said

At an in Amritsar meeting, Mahajan said Operation Blue Star was a “military attack” on the Golden Temple and claimed that the Sikh community “suffered terribly” from the operation. He noted that the 1984 military operation would be similar to historical invasions of Golden Temple, adding that innocent lives were lost in the process. Mahajan said they should remember it as a tragic day in history. He said the operation left a deep scar in the Sikh community, and questioned why no accountability was fixed after the incident. 

Opposition strongly repels

The party of Congress denounced Mahajan’s comments with the intensity of it. Party officials blamed the BJP, which they accused of seeking to reignite the Khalistan controversy for electoral gain ahead of the next elections in Punjab. Congress spokesman said it is misleading historical and unnecessarily tense to say these things. They also alleged that the BJP is using sensitive issues to boost electoral politics. 

Shiv Sena (UBT) and Other Reactions

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said that Mahajan had to be removed from the Maharashtra cabinet, even questioning whether he still was allowed stay on in the BJP. Leaders should respect national integrity and avoid statements that could divide public opinion, Raut said. He also criticized the timing of the remark, connecting it to political strategy ahead of elections. Congress Advocates Operation Blue Star. Congress leaders argued in favor of the 1984 military action and maintained that it was justified to defend India’s unity, and expel militants from the Golden Temple complex. They said that the decision had taken place under difficult circumstances and should be viewed in the context of national security. It was all part of the operation, they said, to restore order and to deter further violence. 

About Operation Blue Star

Operation Blue Star was a military operation conducted during the period from 1 June 1984 until 10 June 1984. The Indian Army stormed the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar to remove Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale-led armed militants. The action was an event which would remain among the most disputed of any Indian wars events and that has since driven many to such political and emotional arguments. 

Political Fallout Continues 

The debate has reopened old political fissures once more. While BJP is attacked by opposing parties, supporter say Mahajan cited historical fears shared with some in the Sikh community. The issue has become a potent political touchstone; some leaders from all parties have weighed in blaming one another for twisting history for their political interests.