Amritsar: On June 5th, 2024, amidst a solemn atmosphere resonating with the memory of Shaheeds of Teeja Ghallughara, the book “Amarnama” was unveiled during a Panthic Diwan at Gurdwara Attari Sahib, Sultanwind (Amritsar). This significant event marked the 40th anniversary of the tragic “Teeja Ghallughara” – the June 1984 Indian Army assault on Sri Harmandar Sahib (Amritsar), Akal Takht Sahib, and over 70 other Sikh Gurdwaras across Punjab and its adjacent regions.
“Amarnama” was released jointly initiated by Panth Sewaks personalities- Bhai Daljit Singh, Bhai Narien Singh, Bhai Rajinder Singh Mugalwal, Bhai Satnam Singh Khandwala, Bhai Lal Singh Akalgarh, Bhai Hardeep Singh Mehraj and Mata Surjit Kaur, the mother of Shaheed Baljinder Singh Raju; Bibi Balwinder Kaur, the sister of Shaheed Harjinder Singh Jinda; Bibi Sarabjit Kaur, the widow of Shaheed Chainchal Singh Uggoke, and author of “Amarnama,” Harpreet Singh Longowal.
“Amarnama” serves as a compilation, shedding light on the accounts of “fake encounter killings” perpetrated by the Indian state’s forces during the decades of the 1980s and 1990s in Sangrur, Malerkotla, and Barnala districts of Punjab. It documents the egregious crimes against humanity committed against Sikhs by Indian forces, including mass-scale enforced disappearances, fake encounters, and extrajudicial killings, during a period marred by state oppression.
The significance of “Amarnama” lies not only in its documentation but also in its testament to the enduring legacy of those whose lives were unjustly cut short by an oppressive regime.
The author, Harpreet Singh Longowal, is no stranger to chronicling of Sikh history and heritage. His earlier work, “Raj Jogi Sant Attar Singh Mastuana,” offers a brief yet insightful biography of Sant Attar Singh, a revered figure in Sikh spirituality. With “Amarnama,” Harpreet Singh Longowal continues his commitment to preserving the legacy of Sikhism, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.
The release of “Amarnama” was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the publisher, Neesaan Parkashan. Their commitment to amplifying voices and narratives that often go unheard underscores the importance of independent publishing in fostering a more inclusive and just society.
As “Amarnama” finds its place on bookshelves and in the hearts of readers, it serves as a reminder of the resilience of the Sikh spirit in the face of adversity. Its pages echo the voices of those who dared to defy oppression, reminding us all of the power of remembrance in shaping a more equitable future.
⊕ ALSO READ :-
- 40 Years of Teeja Ghallughara: Samagam held, Book “Rajghat Te Hamla” Released at Kotbhara
- Kaurnama Book Released in Paris (France); First Edition Sold Out
- New Book “Kaurnama” Receives Global Acclaim