DSGMC to Appeal Sajjan Kumar Acquittal in 1984 Janakpuri Riots Case

The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has strongly objected to the acquittal of former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in the Janakpuri case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The verdict, delivered by Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday, has triggered widespread anger among riot survivors and Sikh bodies seeking long-pending justice.

DSGMC General Secretary Sardar Jagdeep Singh Kahlon stated that the committee would file an appeal in the Delhi High Court after examining the detailed court order. He expressed shock over the acquittal, arguing that multiple eyewitness testimonies and substantial evidence were presented to establish Sajjan Kumar’s role in leading and instigating the violent mob.

Echoing the sentiments of riot victims, Kahlon described the verdict as “extremely unfortunate,” asserting that the prosecution had clearly demonstrated Kumar’s involvement in the Janakpuri violence. He added that DSGMC’s legal team would move swiftly to challenge the ruling, demanding the strictest punishment, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.

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Despite the acquittal in this case, Sajjan Kumar will remain behind bars, as he is already serving two life sentences in other 1984 riots cases. In 2018, the Delhi High Court convicted him in the Palam Colony case, terming the violence “crimes against humanity.” In February 2025, he received another life sentence for the killings of two Sikhs in Saraswati Vihar.

Kahlon also accused the Congress-led government of the time of shielding the accused and failing to provide justice or compensation to the victims for decades. He said meaningful action only began after a change in government at the Centre, which led to convictions in long-pending cases.

Highlighting recent relief measures, Kahlon noted that the Delhi government has provided jobs to nearly 90 victims of the 1984 riots by relaxing eligibility norms and increasing age limits. While acknowledging these steps, he emphasized that full justice remains elusive even after 42 years, and expressed hope that the Delhi High Court would overturn the acquittal and deliver accountability.

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