The spark of separatism has once again been ignited in Punjab. Pro-Khalistan slogans were raised at the Golden Temple on the 30th anniversary of ‘Operation Blue Star’. Apart from radical Sikh organizations, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) also took part in it. Raising the demand for ‘Sikh Raj’, the Jathedar of Akal Takht said that this time Sikh youths would be trained to use arms properly.

On this occasion placards were raised in support of Khalistan, many youths came wearing T-shirts with Bhindranwale’s picture. Swords were also raised. About a month ago, a rally was taken out in Patiala on the foundation day of ‘Sikhs for Justice’, in protest against which the workers of Shiv Sena (Bala Saheb) clashed and a lot of stones were thrown, swords were waved.

These incidents are a serious warning to both the central and state governments. After the Patiala violence, the state government must have taken strong steps against the miscreants, some actions were also taken, but no strong message could be received from it. As a result of that, an attempt was made to ignite the fire of separatism again in the Golden Temple complex. Even now the government there does not seem strict.

About forty years ago, Punjab was scorched in the fire of separatism. Many families were ruined, many youths were misled and ruined their future. With great difficulty, Punjab got back on track. If that fire flares up there again, there will be dire consequences. Surprisingly, why the separatist forces have become active there only after the new government came to power in Punjab.

The suspicion of some people cannot be considered unfounded that during the Punjab Assembly elections, Aam Aadmi Party convener Arvind Kejriwal was said to be close to Khalistan supporters, then why did he not oppose it strongly.

Is there any soft feeling in the mind of the Punjab government about the separatist forces. If so, then it can prove to be dangerous not only for Punjab, but for the entire country. In a republic like India, no state can raise the demand for such separation or independent rule.

It is no secret that pro-Khalistan radical organizations have been getting support from outside. Even Sikh for Justice leader Pannu’s links with Pakistani terrorist organizations are also exposed. Pakistan has been continuously trying to create instability by infiltrating trained terrorists here or by misleading the youth here.

If a lenient attitude is adopted towards Sikh for Justice and other radical, separatist organizations and they continue to expand their circle in the same way, then through them countries like Pakistan will try to fulfill their plans. Tackling terrorism is already a big challenge in front of the government, on which if someone tries to burn the fire again by scraping the ashes of a quiet case, then it can create new trouble. This will be considered a big failure of the government there.

However, the central government also needs to be careful about these incidents. There may be partisan rivalry between the Punjab government and the Centre, but it should not be allowed to come in the way of the security of the country. This fire must be prevented from erupting again through both dialogue and force.

 

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