Court Reserves Order on Jagdish Tytler's Charges in 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots Case

A Delhi court has reserved its order on framing charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the Pul Bangash Sikh killings during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The decision is expected on August 2, with arguments citing conflicting evidence, witness credibility, and past acquittals.

A Delhi court has reserved its decision on framing charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the Pul Bangash Sikh killings during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The order is expected to be announced on August 2.

Special CBI judge Rakesh Siyal reserved the order after hearing submissions from both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Tytler's counsel, Manu Sharma. The CBI had filed a supplementary charge sheet against Tytler in May last year, while the defense argued that video evidence placed Tytler elsewhere on the day of the incident.

The case relates to the alleged killing of three Sikhs in front of Pul Bangash Gurudwara on November 1, 1984, following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The CBI claims it has eyewitnesses who saw Tytler inciting the mob, sufficient evidence to frame charges, and has filed a new charge sheet against Tytler in May 2023.

The defense questioned the credibility of witnesses coming forward after nearly 40 years. The CBI concluded its arguments on April 16, stating that four eyewitness accounts, including Surender Singh's, implicate Tytler. The Justice Nanavati Commission's findings also played a role in the renewed investigation.

Tytler has appeared before the court in response to summons and was granted anticipatory bail on August 4, 2023. Controversy surrounds the credibility of the witnesses and Tytler's alleged involvement in the riots.

The Justice Nanavati Commission, established in 2000, recommended further investigation. The CBI revealed that the mob, allegedly incited by Tytler, set fire to Gurudwara Pul Bangash and killed three Sikhs. The court's decision on August 2 will be closely watched, as it can significantly influence the pursuit of justice in this decades-old case.

(With inputs from agencies.)