42nd anniversary of Op Blue Star: Security tightened; Remove ‘objectionable’ clauses from anti-sacrilege law, says Jathedar

June 6, 2026

The 42nd anniversary of Operation Blue Star is being observed in Amritsar today. Religious ceremonies have been organized at Sri Akal Takht Sahib to mark the occasion.

Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, on Saturday once again warned the Punjab government against ignoring their directions to withdraw “objectionable” clauses from the state anti-sacrilege law, even as the anniversary of ‘Operation Blue Star’ was observed amid pro-Khalistan slogans and waving of posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.

Delivering a customary address to mark the 42nd anniversary of Indian military’s ‘Operation Blue Star’ from the Akal Takht podium, Jathedar Gargaj, without mentioning the specific “objectionable” clauses of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Satkaar (Amendment) Act, 2026, said the “black law” was again brought by the (state) government and it should be revoked immediately.

Amid heavy security build-up, the anniversary was observed with the gathering of a large number of radicals and sympathisers, displaying posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who was killed during the military operation, and amid pro-Khalistan slogans.

They started gathering ahead before dawn in the Golden Temple here, but the meeting largely passed off peacefully. The Jathedar also talked about the Central government’s “black laws” that were later revoked.

The three “black laws”, known as the 2020 agricultural acts, were repealed following a vote in the Parliament on November 29, 2021. The Jathedar said Punjab “remains the homeland of Sikhs” and urged the Sikh diaspora to maintain connect with their homeland.

Posters of Bhindranwale distributed 

Lakhs of devotees have gathered at Sri Akal Takht Sahib to pay their respects. Posters of Bhindranwale have also been distributed among the congregation; devotees are seated at Sri Akal Takht Sahib holding these posters and remembering the martyrs of that time.

Extensive security arrangements have been made for the anniversary. Punjab Police and security forces have been deployed around the Golden Temple and Akal Takht complex. Additionally, over a thousand task force personnel from the SGPC have been deployed.

Checkpoints have been set up at all major entry and exit points of the city to inspect vehicles. Approximately 4,000 personnel from the police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in Amritsar to ensure security. The administration states that all necessary measures have been taken to maintain peace and law and order.