Gajinder Singh Khalsa, Passed Away in Pakistan
Gajinder Singh Khalsa, a prominent Sikh leader and founding president of Dal Khalsa, passed away in Pakistan on July 5, 2024, at the age of 74. He was hospitalized due to a heart ailment a few days prior to his death.
Early Life and Activism
Gajinder Singh's journey into activism began with his deep involvement in the Sikh movement for independence. He co-founded Dal Khalsa in 1978, an organization dedicated to advocating for Sikh sovereignty. Singh's name became widely known following the 1981 hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane, an act he carried out with three other Dal Khalsa members to protest the arrest of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The plane was redirected to Lahore, Pakistan, where the hijackers were arrested and charged (Sikh Siyasat News) (Hindustan Times).
Life in Exile
Following his conviction, Singh served a prison sentence in Pakistan. After his release, he continued to live in exile in Pakistan, remaining one of India's most wanted individuals due to his involvement in the hijacking. Despite his fugitive status, Singh remained a significant figure in the Sikh community, especially among those advocating for Sikh independence (Sikh Siyasat News) (Hindustan Times).
Legacy
Gajinder Singh's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to the Sikh cause. He continued his activism from abroad, influencing Sikh youth and contributing to the discourse on Sikh rights and independence. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Sikh struggle for sovereignty.
MCQs on Gajinder Singh Khalsa
In which year did Gajinder Singh Khalsa co-found Dal Khalsa?
- a) 1978
- b) 1981
- c) 1984
- d) 1990
Answer: a) 1978
What significant event is Gajinder Singh Khalsa known for in 1981?
- a) Establishing a new political party
- b) Hijacking an Indian Airlines plane
- c) Leading a peace march in Amritsar
- d) Writing a book on Sikh history
Answer: b) Hijacking an Indian Airlines plane
Where did the hijacked Indian Airlines plane land in 1981?
- a) Amritsar, India
- b) Islamabad, Pakistan
- c) Lahore, Pakistan
- d) Delhi, India
Answer: c) Lahore, Pakistan
How old was Gajinder Singh Khalsa at the time of his death?
- a) 70
- b) 72
- c) 74
- d) 76
Answer: c) 74
What was the primary aim of the organization Dal Khalsa?
- a) Promote educational reforms
- b) Advocate for Sikh sovereignty
- c) Support economic development
- d) Encourage sports activities
Answer: b) Advocate for Sikh sovereignty
Gajinder Singh Khalsa’s legacy will continue to inspire many in the Sikh community and those involved in the struggle for self-determination.
