Sardar Tarlochan Singh is a former Rajya Sabha member and ex-Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities. He has spent his life fighting for Sikh causes, human rights, and keeping the Punjabi language alive, promoting Sikhism around the world. He has seen it all, from Partition, Nehru and Indira Gandhi’s rule, the rise of Bhindranwale, Operation Blue Star, Rajiv Gandhi, to Modi’s government.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, he talks about Sikhism, what the Sikh community expects from the Central Government, and his experience as Press Secretary to President Giani Zail Singh during the difficult time after Indira Gandhi’s assassination and the anti-Sikh riots. From Partition to now, he shares how life for Sikhs in India has changed over the years.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

02:14 – Language Politics in India

07:10 – Untold History of India-Pakistan Partition

18:47 – Govt Engagement with Sikh Diaspora

29:14 – Sikh Diaspora's Political Influence

37:22 – Khalistan Issue & SGPC Politics

41:02 – Giani Zail Singh’s Political Life

48:43 – Giani Zail Singh vs. Rajiv Gandhi

1:12:31 – Op Blue Star & Rise of Bhindranwale

1:25:21 – Psychological & Political Impact of Op Blue Star

1:32:50 – PM Modi's Bold Steps for Sikhs

1:39:14 – Modi’s Role During the Gujarat Riots