Members associated with radical Sikh outfits and pro-Khalistan groups, including Dal Khalsa, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) among others held, what they termed a ‘freedom march’ in the city on Sunday, a day ahead of the 38th anniversary of ‘Operation Bluestar’, even as uneasy calm was palpable among residents.
The protesters, including youth and the elderly, carrying ‘Khalistan’ flags and placards, raised slogans in support of independence, demanding a separate state for Sikhs — ‘Khalistan’, as the march started from the Bhai Veer Singh Memorial Hall on Lawrence Road. They hailed the sacrifice of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and declared to continue their struggle for ‘Khalistan’. A float with pictures and portraits of damaged ‘Akal Takhat’ and Sikh martyrs was displayed during the march.
Tight security has been provided across the city with regular flag marches being conducted in several parts of the city, besides intense checking being done to maintain law and order.
