Marginal Realities and Revolutionary Rhetoric: Dalit Sikh Reflections on Partition,Naxalism and Secessionist Turmoil in Punjab

Abstract

The partition of India and the division of Punjab spurred the reorganisation of the state. Similarly, unmet promises and feudal repercussions following the formation of Punjab in 1966 later on fuelled Naxalism, which, in turn, somehow contributed to the rise of the Khalistan movement. These events were chronicled through numerous narratives based on diverse experiences. This article explores the different understandings and alternative perspectives from the mainstream within Dalit Sikhs of Punjab about the four major events and tries to encapsulate how they look differently at the partition, how differently they perceive the demand for the Punjabi Suba movement, what their different take is on the rise and fall of Naxalism and left-wing politics in Punjab, and then how differently they responded to Khalistani movement.

The findings suggest that Dalit Sikh perspectives are neither uniform nor aligned with dominant narratives; rather, they reveal deep-seated concerns regarding socio-economic marginalisation, landlessness and exclusion from political power. Therefore, the article challenges conventional historiography and argues for a more inclusive, intersectional understanding of Punjab’s complex historical trajectory.