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The All India Sikh Students Federation (AISSF) was founded in 1943 to unite Sikh youth in addressing Sikh political and religious issues. During the Dharam Yudh Morcha and the aftermath of June 1984, the AISSF became actively involved in the armed Kharku movement, playing a pivotal role in several significant actions. Many young Sikhs made the ultimate sacrifice as part of this movement. Among them was Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar, a member of a prominent and wealthy farming family, closely related to Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Bhai Gurjit Singh stood out as a key figure in the AISSF and later gave his life for the cause at a young age. In addition to his involvement with AISSF, he was also a member of the Khalistan Commando Force.

Birth and Early Life

Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar was born in the village of Jhok Harihar (Tehsil and District Firozpur) to Sardar Avtar Singh and Mata Jarnail Kaur. The family was well-known in the region as a prosperous and hardworking farming household, owning over 200 acres of land. Akal Purkh blessed Sardar Avtar Singh with four sons: Bhai Malkit Singh, Bhai Darshan Singh, Bhai Surjit Singh, and Shaheed Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar.

Bhai Gurjit Singh completed his early education up to matriculation at the Government School in his native village, Jhok Harihar. Afterward, he pursued higher education at GNE College in Moga, where he became actively involved in the All India Sikh Students Federation (AISSF).

AISSF Membership

During his college years, Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar, deeply rooted in Sikh values, was naturally drawn to the AISSF. He became an active member of the organization under the leadership of Bhai Gurjit Singh, also known as Vadda Gurjit. Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar had the qualities of a natural-born leader, and his potential was soon recognized when he was appointed the District President of AISSF for Firozpur.

As the AISSF District President, Bhai Gurjit Singh focused on mobilizing Sikh youth by forming local units in various areas. He also began participating in Kharku activities, confronting anti-Sikh forces in Punjab, which quickly made him a target of law enforcement. His involvement in these activities led to the issuance of arrest warrants by the police, after that, he went to Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale at Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar.

Relationship with Sant Bhindranwale

Bhai Gurjit Singh and his family had a longstanding connection with Damdami Taksal and Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Bhai Gurjit Singh’s father, Sardar Avtar Singh, had a deep and respectful relationship with Sant Kartar Singh Ji Khalsa Bhindranwale and Baba Joginder Singh Rode (father of Sant Jarnail Singh Ji). During the 1970s, whenever Sant Jarnail Singh visited Firozpur or the Malwa region for Sikhi Parchar, Bhai Gurjit Singh’s family had the honor of hosting Sant Ji and the Taksal Jatha.

After the ‘Sachkhand gaman’ (passing) of Sant Kartar Singh Ji, Bhai Gurjit Singh’s family developed an even closer bond with Sant Jarnail Singh Ji. During the days of the Dharam Yudh Morcha, when the police declared Bhai Gurjit Singh a wanted AISSF member, he stayed inside Sri Darbar Sahib, where he served as a bodyguard to Sant Bhindranwale, armed with a stun gun. Sant Ji regarded Bhai Gurjit Singh as a younger brother, highlighting the deep personal connection they shared.

Bhai Gurjit Singh actively participated in Kharku operations throughout Punjab while residing with Sant Jarnail Singh Ji during the Dharam Yudh Morcha. His involvement in these actions aimed to confront and resist the oppressive measures against the Sikh community. As Bhai Gurjit Singh took a stand for the rights and dignity of Sikhs, his activities garnered significant attention, leading to heightened tensions between the Kharku movement and law enforcement.

In response to his growing prominence, the police began to harass Bhai Sahib’s family, applying relentless pressure on them to surrender Bhai Gurjit Singh to the authorities. This harassment included threats, intimidation, and surveillance, as the police sought to undermine his influence and disrupt the support he received from his family and community. Despite these challenges, Bhai Gurjit Singh’s family remained steadfast in their loyalty, refusing to betray him in the face of increasing adversity.

Anand Karaj

In 1977, Bhai Gurjit Singh was in the final year of his Bachelor of Arts (BA) program at GNE College in Moga. During this time, Sant Jarnail Singh Ji shared a close friendship with Bhai Darshan Singh, Bhai Gurjit Singh’s elder brother. Their bond was so strong that they once exchanged their dastars, becoming known as “Paggwatt Brothers.” Sant Ji would often visit their home during his parchar (spiritual preaching) tours, fostering a deep connection with the family.

One day, Sant Jarnail Singh Ji approached Bhai Darshan Singh with a special request. Upon hearing this, Bhai Darshan Singh readily expressed his willingness to grant Sant Ji anything he desired. To his surprise, Sant Ji requested his younger brother, Bhai Gurjit Singh. Although Bhai Darshan Singh held a deep admiration for Bhai Gurjit Singh and cherished their bond, he felt that it would have been better if Sant Ji had asked for something else. However, understanding the significance of Sant Ji’s request and the deep-rooted connection they shared, he realized that they would have to honor this request.

As a result, Sant Ji officiated the marriage of Bhai Gurjit Singh to his niece, Bibi Rashpal Kaur, the daughter of Bhai Veer Singh (Sant Ji’s elder brother). Bhai Gurjit Singh and Bibi Rashpal Kaur were blessed with two daughters, further intertwining their families and solidifying their legacy within the Sikh community.

June 1984 Army Attack – Arrest and Release

During the Indian Army’s attack on Sri Darbar Sahib, Bhai Gurjit Singh was present at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, where he displayed remarkable bravery in the face of overwhelming odds. On the night of June 5-6, following instructions from Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and Bhai Amrik Singh Ji, he managed to escape from the rear of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. However, during his escape, he was apprehended by the Army while he was in the outside market and subsequently handed over to the Amritsar Police.

Once in custody, Bhai Gurjit Singh was detained at the Kotwali Police Station in Amritsar along with other arrested individuals. During this time, a police officer recognized him as Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar, having often seen him accompanying Sant Bhindranwale as a bodyguard. This officer, who harbored respect and admiration for Sant Jarnail Singh Ji and his followers, offered to assist Bhai Gurjit Singh in securing his release.

When Bhai Gurjit Singh inquired how he could help, the officer explained that he could list Bhai Gurjit Singh’s name under the category of Sikh Sangat, which would afford him certain privileges. By leveraging this connection, the officer ensured that Bhai Gurjit Singh’s name was added to the Sikh Sangat list. As a result, the police transferred him to Firozpur Jail under the general category, allowing for a smoother release process. This intervention ultimately spared Bhai Gurjit Singh from being sent to Jodhpur Jail, where many other Sikh activists faced harsh conditions.

Post June 1984

After being released from Firozpur Jail, Bhai Gurjit Singh traveled throughout Punjab despite the constant risk of re-arrest. He worked tirelessly to establish a network of remaining AISSF members and activist Singhs, aiming to revive and strengthen the Kharku Movement. Recognizing the importance of tactical training, Bhai Gurjit Singh soon traveled to Pakistan, where some Sikhs had sought refuge following the army’s attack. There, he underwent training in guerrilla warfare, equipping himself with the skills necessary for the struggles ahead.

Upon his return to Punjab in 1985, Bhai Gurjit Singh initiated Kharku activities alongside his comrades, including Bhai Manbir Singh Chaheru, Bhai Gurnam Singh Bandala, and Bhai Gurdev Singh Usmanwala. Together, they sought to organize resistance against oppressive forces and rally support for the Sikh cause.

Throughout his endeavors, Bhai Gurjit Singh remained committed to the guidance of Sant Baba Thakur Singh Ji and other senior Singhs of Damdami Taksal. His dedication was evident when he organized a Shaheedi Samagam in December 1985, honoring the sacrifices of fellow martyrs. Additionally, Bhai Gurjit Singh played a significant role in the Sarbat Khalsa held on January 26, 1986, contributing to the unity and strength of the Sikh community during this period.

All Indian Sikh Student Federation’s Convener

On August 9, 1986, Bhai Manbir Singh Chaheru, also known as General Hari Singh and founder of the Khalistan Commando Force, was arrested at the residence of Bhai Major Baldev Singh Ghuman in Guru Tegh Bahadur Nagar, Jalandhar. Alongside him were Charanjit Singh (from Haryana Jattan, Hoshiarpur), Tirlochan Singh, Santokh Singh (from Kishanpur, Jalandhar City), and Gurdial Singh. Following this event, suspicions arose regarding Bhai Sarbjit Singh Ropar, who was the Convener of AISSF at that time. In response to these developments, the organization appointed Bhai Gurjit Singh as the new Convener of the All India Sikh Students Federation.

As the new Convener, Bhai Gurjit Singh revitalized the AISSF, instilling a renewed sense of purpose and commitment within the organization. He worked diligently to establish deeper roots for the AISSF across Punjab, mobilizing Sikh youth and fostering a spirit of activism and solidarity. His leadership was so impactful that it caught the attention of law enforcement; the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab publicly stated that the Punjab issue could be resolved within days if Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar were arrested. This statement underscored both his influence within the movement and the perceived threat he posed to the authorities.

Kharku Activities

Bhai Gurjit Singh actively participated in numerous Kharku actions alongside fellow AISSF members and Khalistan Commando operatives. Some notable operations included:

• February 12, 1987: Bhai Gurjit Singh played a key role in orchestrating what was, at the time, the largest bank heist in India’s history. The operation resulted in the theft of approximately ₹5 crore 70 lakh (57 million rupees or US$4.5 million) from the Millar Ganj branch of Punjab National Bank in Ludhiana. A portion of the stolen funds belonged to the Reserve Bank of India, the country’s central bank.
• March 8, 1988: The elimination of Amar Singh Chamkilla, a singer who was known for promoting vulgarity in his music despite multiple warnings from Kharku activists. His continued disregard for these warnings and attempts to defame the AISSF through false allegations ultimately led to his demise.
• January 8, 1988: The assassination of Tarlochan Singh Riyasti, the former Congress Chief Minister of Punjab and a Cabinet Minister under Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. He was shot and subsequently set on fire along with his car and driver, Mangal Singh, near Ludhiana. Riyasti was seen as a significant threat due to his efforts to infiltrate the Kharku diaspora and undermine the movement.
• The elimination of Avinashi Singh, the Secretary of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), and Doctor Brar, both of whom were perceived as adversaries to the Sikh struggle.
• November 7, 1991: The assassination of Comrade Sarwan Singh Cheema, a former MLA and Ex-President of the Kisan Sabha, along with his five bodyguards. He was held responsible for the martyrdom of many innocent Sikh youth, contributing to the ongoing violence against the community.
• Additionally, individuals like Professor Sewa Singh, who had once been part of the AISSF, were also targeted due to their defection from the movement and betrayal of their principles.

AISSF Politics

Bhai Jasbir Singh Rode’s Jathedar appointment: In October 1987, reports emerged about growing differences between the Panthic Committee, which was advocating for Khalistan, and the Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, Prof. Darshan Singh. On October 16, 1987, Bhai Jasbir Singh Rode announced that Prof. Darshan Singh had been removed from his position as Jathedar. After being released from Tihar Jail in Delhi on March 4, 1988, Bhai Jasbir Singh Rode officially assumed the role of Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib on March 9, 1988.

Unification of two AISSF factions: During the Vaisakhi gathering at Talwandi Sabo, Jathedar Bhai Jasbir Singh Rode, in his capacity as Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, announced the unification of the two AISSF factions into a single Federation. He established a five-member ad hoc committee to lead this unified body. Bhai Gurjit Singh, who had previously served as president of the AISSF (Gurjit Singh Group), was appointed convener of the committee. Of the five members, three—Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar, Bhai Gurjit Singh Kaka, and Bhai Sher Singh Pandori—were from Bhai Gurjit Singh’s faction, while the remaining two—Bhai Surinder Singh Baba and Bhai Kulwant Singh Khukhrana—represented Bhai Manjit Singh’s faction. At the time, Bhai Manjit Singh was incarcerated in Jodhpur Jail.

Federation Leadership Transfer: However, after Bhai Rode’s release on March 4, 1988, he shifted his rhetoric from advocating explicitly for ‘Khalistan’ to calling for ‘complete independence’. This shift raised concerns among many Kharku factions, who suspected that Bhai Rode might be aligning with the government’s agenda. In reality, Bhai Rode aimed to mediate between the Kharkus and the government, though this move tarnished his reputation in the eyes of some. Additionally, tensions emerged around Federation President Bhai Gurjit Singh’s relationship with Bhai Jasbir Singh Rode. Consequently, the leadership of Bhai Gurjit Singh’s Federation was handed over to Bhai Daljit Singh Bittu.

Arrest and Release – May 1988

In mid-May 1988, Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar was arrested in the village of Jangpur. Following his apprehension, the police detained Bhai Sahib at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp for interrogation. During this time, he negotiated a deal with a police official, agreeing to pay a bribe of 80,000 rupees in exchange for his release.

This substantial sum was arranged to facilitate his escape, demonstrating both his resourcefulness and determination to continue the struggle for Sikh rights. Upon successfully securing his freedom, Bhai Sahib fled to Pakistan, seeking refuge and regrouping before resuming his activities in support of the Kharku Movement.

Pakistan’s Arrest and Release

After his release from the Punjab Police, Bhai Gurjit Singh went to Pakistan. Unfortunately, he quickly fell under suspicion from Pakistani intelligence agencies due to unfounded claims made by envious individuals. As a result, he was arrested and subjected to intense interrogation and torture as they sought to ascertain his loyalty to their cause.

This period proved to be particularly challenging for Bhai Gurjit Singh. Despite his previous standing and influence within Pakistan and its agencies, he faced significant hardship due to these false accusations. He was held in custody for nearly a year and a half as the authorities sought to clear him of their suspicions.

Upon his eventual release, Bhai Gurjit Singh returned to Punjab, where he reconnected with his inmates and recounted the painful experiences he endured during his imprisonment. Bhai Daljit Singh Bittu urged Bhai Gurjit Singh to reclaim his position as the president of the AISSF, but he respectfully declined. Bhai Sahib expressed, “Now, I can see my shaheedi time is very near. You are qualified for the presidency of AISSF, and you may continue in that role. I must prove myself through my seva and work to shed the stigma of suspicion that has followed me.”

Shaheedi – November 2, 1991

After returning from his imprisonment in Pakistan, Bhai Gurjit Singh Jhok Harihar remained actively involved in Punjab alongside fellow Kharkus, including Bhai Gurdeep Singh Deepa Heran and other members of the Khalistan Commando Force. His commitment to the cause of Sikh rights and independence remained unwavering.

On November 1, 1991, Bhai Gurjit Singh was arrested in District Ludhiana. The police detained him in their extra-judicial custody for one night, during which they plotted to prevent any further escape attempts. Fearing that Bhai Gurjit Singh might evade capture once again, the authorities orchestrated a tragic outcome.

On November 2, 1991, in a heinous act of betrayal, the police executed Bhai Gurjit Singh in a staged encounter near Jagraon, falsely labeling him as a dangerous criminal. This act not only marked the martyrdom of a valiant Sikh activist but also underscored the perilous climate of repression faced by those fighting for the Sikh cause during this turbulent period.

Written by Editor and Admin of June84.com