The Centre has reached out to the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots by announcing additional compensation of Rs. 5 lakh each on Thursday to the next of kin of people who died in the massacre.
Reportedly, the order was passed by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who took the decision after a high-level meeting where the issue of compensation to civilian victims of communal and militant violence was discussed.
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) secretary, Roop Singh, welcomed the decision and hoped for punishment to the culprits.
"The Sikhs have always been demanding justice and have also gone to courts asking for justice. Then we came to know that the Narendra Modi government has decided to give Rs 5,00,000 to the victims of anti-Sikh riots. We welcome the decision and hope the union government will help the Sikhs by punishing the culprits responsible for the riots," said Singh.
Meanwhile, Jagdish Kaur, a victim of 1984 anti-Sikh riots, said the money might provide some relief but cannot compensate for the lives lost.
"Everyone knows the grief caused by loss of a dear one. However, the money will provide relief to people and wives of those who are living under poverty. But the grief and loss of a dear one cannot be compared to money. We welcome government's decision," said Kaur.
Over 3,000 victims of the 1984 violence, triggered by the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, are likely to benefit from the government's announcement.
Indira Gandhi's assassination on October 31, 1984, was revenge against Operation Blue Star conducted at the Golden Temple to flush out militants led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.
Operation Blue Star was ordered by Indira Gandhi to remove separatist Bhindranwale, and his armed followers from the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
