Developments in Palestine remind Sikhs of past atrocities, says Punjab-based farmer union

“The incidents in Palestine remind Punjabis, especially the Sikhs, of the atrocities during medieval times, Partition and the 1984 riots,” he added.

Rajinder Singh Deep Singh Wala, General Secretary, Kirti Kisan Union, said, “We appeal to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and other organisations, along with the countrymen, to help the Palestinian people who are going through this difficult and terrible time…

“Our organisation has raised its voice in favour of a permanent truce and also demanded that the United Nations find a sustainable solution to the issue of Palestine. We had organised many demonstrations in Punjab earlier in support of Palestinians. We are the first organisation in Punjab to extend financial aid to Palestine or perhaps the first farmer union in India to do so.”

The Kirti Kisan Union is affiliated with the All India Kisan Mazdoor Sabha (AIKMS). Kirti Kisan Union leaders said AIKMS is on the same page with them on the Palestinian issue.

When contacted, Jazer said, “The (Kirti Kisan Union) delegation visited the embassy of Palestine… in New Delhi to show their solidarity with the Palestinian people and denounce the continued Israeli aggression and genocide against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip… stressed the depth of relations between India and Palestine and confirm their support for the establishment of the state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital…”