Jagdish Tytler pleads 'Not Guilty' in 1984 Sikh riots case

New Delhi: Congress leader Jagdish Tytler has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the 1984 Pul Bangash Sikh killings case, in which three Sikhs were killed near Gurudwara Pul Bangash on November 1, 1984. Tytler has opted for a trial, and the Rouse Avenue Court has scheduled the matter for trial and evidence recording on October 3. The court had previously framed charges against Tytler on August 30. The court has summoned the first eyewitness to provide testimony, marking a significant step in the trial process.

Charges filed against Tytler

On August 30, the trial court directed the framing of multiple charges against Tytler under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. These charges include:

• Section 143: Unlawful assembly
• Section 147: Rioting
• Section 295: Injuring or defiling a place of worship
• Section 436: Mischief by fire or explosive substance
• Section 302: Murder, read with Section 109 (abetment)

However, Tytler was discharged from the charge of rioting with deadly weapons. The court concluded that there was insufficient ground to proceed with this charge.

Court rejects Tytler's claim of unreliable testimonies

The court acknowledged the severe nature of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, noting that the brutality of the events had initially deterred witnesses from coming forward. This observation was made in response to Tytler’s claims that the testimonies against him were unreliable due to delays in reporting. Tytler argued that the eyewitnesses' statements, given long after the events, should not be trusted.

Prosecutor counters Tytler's claim, citing witness fear

The public prosecutor countered Tytler’s argument by highlighting that the witnesses' initial reluctance to speak was due to fear stemming from the violent nature of the riots and Tytler's influence. The court placed significant weight on the testimonies of Harpal Kaur, Harvinderjit Singh, and Abdul Wahid. These witnesses have claimed to have seen Tytler inciting a mob to attack Gurudwara Pul Bangash, kill Sikhs, and loot their properties.

Additionally, other witness statements about the riots, including accounts of killings and property destruction, were also considered. The court uses these testimonies to piece together the events and allegations surrounding Tytler’s involvement.