Chidambaram: Operation Blue Star Was a Mistake

Former Union Minister P. Chidambaram has described Operation Blue Star, the 1984 military action at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, as a significant error. Speaking at the Khushwant Singh Literature Festival in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh, he stated that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi paid the ultimate price for this decision with her life. Chidambaram emphasized that the operation was not solely her decision but a collective one involving the Army, police, intelligence, and civil services.

Chidambaram remarked, "No disrespect to any military officers present here, but that was the wrong way to retrieve the Golden Temple. A few years later, we showed the right way by keeping out the Army." He acknowledged that while the operation was aimed at removing armed Khalistani separatists led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, it resulted in significant casualties and damage to the temple complex.

The operation, conducted from June 1 to June 8, 1984, aimed to eliminate militants who had fortified themselves within the Golden Temple. Although it succeeded in its military objectives, it led to widespread outrage within the Sikh community and had severe repercussions. Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards on October 31, 1984, an act widely seen as retaliation for the operation, which in turn sparked anti-Sikh riots across India.

Chidambaram also addressed current issues in Punjab, noting that the demand for Khalistan has diminished significantly. He stated, "From my visits to Punjab, I believe the cry for Khalistan or separation has practically died down. The real challenge now is the state’s economic situation — most illegal migrants are from Punjab." His comments have reignited discussions about the lasting impact of Operation Blue Star on Indian society and politics, even four decades later.