Manmohan Singh Portrait Protest at Sikh Museum

Amritsar : CA controversy erupted at the Sikh Museum after the installation of a portrait of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh sparked protests from certain Sikh groups. Bhai Amrik Singh Rajoana, a prominent Sikh figure, has written a letter to the SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee) president expressing strong opposition to the display of Manmohan Singh’s image inside the museum. Rajoana accused the Congress party, which Singh has long been associated with, of being responsible for the historical atrocities against the Sikh community, especially during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

In his letter, Rajoana criticized the decision, stating that honoring a political leader linked with such dark chapters in Sikh history was unacceptable. He urged the SGPC to reconsider the placement of the portrait, emphasizing the sentiments of the Sikh community who suffered during the violence and subsequent political fallout. The move has led to significant debate within Sikh circles, with some supporting the inclusion of Singh for his contributions as India’s Prime Minister, while others see it as insensitive to Sikh memories.

The SGPC, the apex body managing Sikh religious affairs, now faces pressure from both sides. While the organization has historically worked to preserve Sikh heritage and culture, this incident highlights the challenges it faces in balancing contemporary politics with community sentiments. The Sikh Museum is intended as a space to commemorate Sikh history and heroes, which makes the controversy even more poignant.

Many in the Sikh community recall the 1984 riots where thousands of Sikhs were killed in the aftermath of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination. Although Dr. Manmohan Singh was not directly involved, his association with the Congress party has caused unease among many Sikhs who hold the party responsible for the failure to protect the community and bring justice.

This controversy sheds light on the lasting wounds and political sensitivities within Punjab and Sikh society. The SGPC’s decision and the response from leaders like Rajoana demonstrate the continued struggle to address historical grievances while navigating present-day politics.

The situation is still evolving, and many await the SGPC’s official response to the protest and letter. The incident also raises questions about how public institutions represent history and political figures with contested legacies.