Delhi Court Defers Verdict In 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots Case Against Sajjan Kumar

Sajjan Kumar

A Delhi court has postponed its verdict in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots murder case against former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar.

Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, who was set to deliver the ruling on Friday, deferred the pronouncement to February 12.

The case concerns the killings of Jaswant Singh and his son Tarundeep Singh in Saraswati Vihar during the riots. Kumar, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail, appeared before the court via video conference.

The court had previously reserved its judgment after hearing the final arguments about the November 1, 1984, attack. Originally registered at the Punjabi Bagh police station, the case was later taken over by a special investigation team (SIT) for further inquiry.

Charges Against Kumar
On December 16, 2021, the court framed charges against Kumar, stating that there was a “prima facie” case against him. The prosecution argued that a violent mob, armed with deadly weapons, engaged in widespread arson, looting, and destruction in retaliation for the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

According to the case details, the mob attacked the home of Jaswant Singh’s wife, killing both Jaswant and Tarundeep, looting their belongings, and setting their house ablaze.

The court noted there was sufficient evidence to establish that Kumar was not just a participant but played a leading role in the mob.

With the verdict now scheduled for February 12, the case remains a significant legal battle in the long-pending justice for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots victims.