From Politics to Prison: The Story of Sajjan Kumar

 

Sajjan Kumar, born on September 23, 1945, in Delhi, India, is a former Indian politician known for his association with the Indian National Congress (INC) and his subsequent conviction related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Early Life and Political Ascent

Growing up in an economically disadvantaged family, Kumar's early years were marked by hardship. Reports suggest that during his childhood, he sold tea to support his family's livelihood. Despite these challenges, he developed a keen interest in politics during the 1970s. In 1977, he was elected to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi from the Madipur constituency, a notable achievement during a period when few Congress members secured positions in the city. His political journey gained momentum as he became closely associated with Sanjay Gandhi, a prominent figure in the INC, eventually emerging as one of Gandhi's trusted aides.

Role in the 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots

The assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, triggered widespread anti-Sikh riots across India, with Delhi experiencing significant violence. Sajjan Kumar, then a powerful Congress leader and Member of Parliament, was implicated in orchestrating attacks against the Sikh community. Eyewitness accounts and testimonies indicated his active involvement in inciting mobs that led to the killing of Sikhs and the destruction of their properties.

Legal Proceedings and Conviction

For decades, allegations against Kumar lingered without resulting in substantial legal action. However, persistent efforts by victims' families and advocacy groups culminated in renewed investigations. In December 2018, the Delhi High Court sentenced Kumar to life imprisonment for his role in the murder of five Sikhs in Delhi's Palam Colony during the riots. This conviction marked a significant moment, as it held a prominent political figure accountable for the atrocities committed during that period.

In February 2025, further legal proceedings led to another life sentence for Kumar. A Delhi court found him guilty of leading a mob that killed two Sikhs in the city's Saraswati Vihar area on November 1, 1984. The prosecution, emphasizing the gravity of his actions, sought the death penalty, arguing that his crimes amounted to "genocide and ethnic cleansing." However, considering various factors, including his age and health, the court opted for a life sentence.

Current Status

As of February 2025, Sajjan Kumar remains incarcerated, serving multiple life sentences for his involvement in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. His appeals are pending before higher judicial authorities, but his convictions represent a significant chapter in India's legal and political history, highlighting the prolonged quest for justice by the victims and their families.

Kumar's case underscores the complexities of political influence, communal violence, and the challenges inherent in the pursuit of justice within a democratic framework.