Witness in 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots Case Claims Threats Led to Inconsistent Testimony

In a major turn of events regarding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, a crucial witness named Surender Singh has allegedly changed his testimonial account due to facing numerous threats. This claim was brought to light by Manjeet Singh GK, the former Chairman of the Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee (DSGMC), during his court testimony at the Rouse Avenue Court. GK recounted that Surender Singh had confided in him about the intimidation he had faced, which led to varying versions of his statements. He encouraged Singh to share the truth, assuring him of support from the Sikh community.

This statement came to be recorded in connection with the riots that occurred in Pul Bangash, where Congress politician Jagdish Tytler is on trial. Judge Jitendra Singh oversaw the recording of GK's testimony, presented by CBI prosecutor Amit Jindal. GK highlighted during his testimony, "Surender Singh mentioned that due to the threats, he felt pressured to change his statements. I reassured him, letting him know that the community stood behind him, propelling him to finally divulge the truth concerning Tytler’s connections to the case."

Senior advocate HS Phoolka expressed optimism regarding Tytler’s conviction, especially following GK's revelations. A notable piece of evidence presented during the proceedings was a CD showcasing a sting operation from 2012, spearheaded by GK. This sting purportedly captured Tytler admitting to the killing of 100 Sikhs and boasting about his influence. Phoolka shared with the media, “The case against Tytler for the murder of three Sikhs during the 1984 Sikh genocide unfolded today. The sting operation submitted to the CBI, in which Tytler acknowledged his involvement, was played in court.”

During cross-examination, Tytler’s legal representatives questioned GK about the sting operation. GK clarified that he was not present nor involved in recording the sting and stated, “I cannot comment on who conducted or why the sting was executed. I am unaware of the process that was used.” The ongoing trial addresses the violent incidents that resulted in the deaths of three Sikhs near the Pul Bangash Gurudwara on November 1, 1984.