On June 6, 2025, during the 41st anniversary of Operation Blue Star, pro-Khalistan slogans were raised at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Supporters of radical Sikh outfits, including the Dal Khalsa and the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) led by Simranjit Singh Mann, chanted “Khalistan Zindabad” as they gathered at the Akal Takht, the supreme temporal seat of Sikhs. Activists displayed portraits of slain militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and Khalistani flags, emphasizing their continued support for the separatist movement.
The event also marked the death anniversary of Bhindranwale, who was killed during Operation Blue Star in 1984. Former Akal Takht Jathedar Jasbir Singh Rode commented on the slogans, stating that such expressions have been consistently made both in India and abroad, and are not a new occurrence.
Security was heightened around the Golden Temple complex and the surrounding areas to maintain law and order during the commemorations. A peaceful bandh was observed in the interior walled city of Amritsar.
Another post- PM Narendra Modi waves the Tiranga as he inaugurates Chenab bridge – the world’s HIGHEST railway arch bridge.
The anniversary brought to light internal divisions within the Sikh community. The Damdami Taksal, led by Baba Harnam Singh Khalsa, opposed the address of Akal Takht’s acting Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, citing procedural concerns regarding his appointment. In response to the tensions, Giani Gargaj refrained from delivering his customary message to the Sikh community on this significant day.