Did Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Justify Congress's Actions During the 1984 Riots?

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Did Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Justify Congress's Actions During the 1984 Riots?

Synopsis

In a heated Assembly discussion, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta lambasted the Congress party for its role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots while Congress workers protested against slum demolitions. This clash highlights ongoing tensions over historical accountability and current housing crises, raising questions about the responsibility of political leaders in safeguarding vulnerable communities.

Key Takeaways

  • CM Rekha Gupta condemns Congress for the 1984 riots.
  • Protests arise over slum demolitions affecting 15,000 families.
  • Accusations of historical accountability are brought to light.
  • Rahul Gandhi pledges support for displaced communities.
  • Political tensions escalate as housing crises unfold.

New Delhi, Aug 4 (NationPress) - Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta criticized the Congress party regarding the 1984 riots during an Assembly session, coinciding with protests from Congress members outside the Assembly against the demolition of slums in the city.

Despite lacking representation in the Delhi Assembly, the CM did not hold back in condemning the party's actions, accusing it of being anti-Sikh.

During a discussion thanking the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and armed forces for Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, she remarked, “I must address the events of 1984. Following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, her successor Rajiv Gandhi infamously stated, 'When a big tree falls, the earth shakes.' Did he not comprehend the gravity of his words? This statement triggered the slaughter of thousands of Sikhs nationwide and the obliteration of numerous homes. Where was the accountability then?”

She further criticized the Congress party for the partition and the occupation of Kashmir by Pakistan.

“You (Congress) claim the accolades for India’s independence, so why did you evade responsibility when Kashmir, an integral part of India, was invaded and seized by Pakistan? It was your party in power when this happened,” she asserted.

Earlier, Congress activists, led by Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee President Devender Yadav, protested outside the Assembly during the initial day of the monsoon session, opposing the unlawful demolition of over 3,000 homes by the BJP government, which left nearly 15,000 families homeless.

Yadav was subsequently detained and taken to Subzi Mandi Police Station.

He mentioned that Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, visited the affected slum residents, promising them assistance and support for their resettlement after the Gupta administration decided against demolishing slum clusters without providing alternative housing.

Yadav stated that in the upcoming days, Congress workers would visit every JJ cluster to demonstrate the party’s support and solidarity, ensuring that the Gupta government does not displace the underprivileged without proper resettlement.

Point of View

It is crucial to recognize the historical context of the allegations made by CM Rekha Gupta against the Congress party. While it's essential to hold political parties accountable for past actions, it is equally vital to focus on the current challenges faced by communities, particularly in the context of housing and displacement. The ongoing protests signify a deeper societal concern regarding the welfare of vulnerable populations.
NationPress
07/10/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main accusations made by CM Rekha Gupta against Congress?
CM Rekha Gupta accused Congress of being responsible for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and criticized them for not taking accountability during the occupation of Kashmir by Pakistan.
What triggered the protests by Congress workers?
Congress workers protested against the illegal demolition of over 3,000 slum homes by the BJP government, which left around 15,000 families homeless.
Who is Devender Yadav?
Devender Yadav is the President of the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee, leading protests against the slum demolitions.
What are Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev?
Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev are military operations that were acknowledged during the Assembly discussion, with CM Gupta thanking the Prime Minister and armed forces for their efforts.
How did Rahul Gandhi respond to the situation of the slum dwellers?
Rahul Gandhi visited the displaced slum dwellers, offering them support and assistance for their resettlement.
Nation Press