Thousands are expected to attend the event, as protesters will demand that the assault of June 1984 be recognised as a genocide and support to create an independent Sikh state.
Crowds from all over the country will assemble in Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square in support.
Sikhs say thousands were murdered when Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sent the Indian army to attack Sikhism’s holiest shrine, Harmandar Sahib also known as the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
The Gurdwara – was built of white marble by the fifth Sikh guru, Guru Arjun, in the 16th Century – and later coated in real gold.
Guru Arjun later completed the Adi Granth – the holy scripture of Sikhism – and placed it in the temple.
The attack in 1984 coincided with the martyrdom date of the fifth Sikh Guru, which Sikhs believe was purposely chosen to cause maximum damage to Sikhs.
In 1980’s the Sikhs demanded greater autonomy for the state of Punjab and equal recognition of the Sikh faith. The Indian government saw this as a threat to destabilise the Indian state.
The London march, from Hyde Park to Trafalgar Square, will be led by five Sikhs in ceremonial dress with swords drawn, and include floats on the themes of “truth”, “freedom” and “justice”.
Sikhs from one of the largest Sikh Temple’s in Europe the Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick in Sandwell will be taking part in the march, organisers have arranged for up to 15 coaches, for Sikhs who wish to go and be part of the march and rally.
Guru Nanak Gurdwara President, Jatinder Singh said “This event is to create awareness and remind the Indian Government that this issue will simply not go away and we will continue in our pursuit of truth, justice and freedom. As a community we have a duty towards the families of the victims. We will never forget 1984.”
