NHRC asks Centre to frame policy on release of Sikh prisoners

The NHRC has issued directions to the Centre for taking appropriate action within eight weeks on the issue of framing a policy for release of Sikh detainees, with Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee saying it will take up the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
DSGMC President Manjit Singh GK said they had taken up the issue with the NHRC which has directed the Centre to frame a policy in this regard.
"The authority concerned is directed to take appropriate action within eight weeks and to inform the complainant of the action taken in the matter," the NHRC said in its order to the Ministry of Law and Justice.

Manjit Singh said the Ministry of Law and Justice has to formulate a uniform policy in all states across the nation for premature release of prisoners convicted in different cases from time to time.
Singh said he will raise the issue with Prime Minister for early framing of policy for release of sikh detainees lodged in jails even after completion of their sentences.
He said after suffering for two decades during the days of turmoil for two decades in 1980s, Sikhs now are struggling for release of their detainees who were arrested and convicted during those days.
"Now Sikhs have to take drastic steps such as fast unto death for raising a very legitimate concern of the community," he said referring to protests of fast unto death by Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa on two occasions and Bapu Surat Singh Khalsa who is still on fast in his home in Ludhiana demanding release of Sikh detainees.

He hoped the NHRC directions would go a long way in solving the issue of release of Sikh prisoners.