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Amritsar: Mrs. Gandhi's Last Battle
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob , who ran the BBC's bureau in Delhi, here trace the long build-up to the storming the Sikh stronghold, the shifts of power within the Sikh community and effort of central government both to utilize and control them. The book captures rise of Bhindranwale whose extremism played wedge between Sikh and Hindu, Sikh and Sikh and Punjab and India, the indecisiveness of Indira Gandhi who paid for the catastrophic aftermath with her life. Tully and Jacob bring tragedy of Sikh from many arresting angles. They met Bhindranwale and many other central characters in the drama. They gathered eye witness account from every quarter to fill in this remarkable picture of what occurred and present their thought provoking analysis of what happened.
237 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1985
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About the author
Mark Tully
52 books132 followersSir William Mark Tully was the Chief of Bureau for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in New Delhi for 22 years. Schooled in England, he stayed mostly in India covering all major incidents in South Asia during his tenure. He was made an Officer of The Order of the British Empire in 1985 and was awarded the Padma Shree in 1992, a rare distinction for a non-Indian. He was knighted in the 2002 New Year Honours. In 2005 he received the Padma Bhushan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
September 16, 2025
This is one book I have been waiting for too long. Stark and unapologetic about why this book is needed, the author is clear about the importance of writing this book. Appreciate the research that went into writing bold book as this.
Additional reading:
1. Blood for Blood: Fifty Years of the Global Khalistan Project by Terry Milewski
2. Loss Of Faith: How The Air India Bombers Got Away With Murder by Kim Bolan
3. Sikh Separatism: A History of Conflicts
Rajesh Singh
4. The Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition by Harjot Oberoi
5. Sikh Separatism: The Politics of Faith by Rajiv A. Kapur
Additional reading:
1. Blood for Blood: Fifty Years of the Global Khalistan Project by Terry Milewski
2. Loss Of Faith: How The Air India Bombers Got Away With Murder by Kim Bolan
3. Sikh Separatism: A History of Conflicts
Rajesh Singh
4. The Construction of Religious Boundaries: Culture, Identity and Diversity in the Sikh Tradition by Harjot Oberoi
5. Sikh Separatism: The Politics of Faith by Rajiv A. Kapur
January 5, 2016
Not a bad book. I used this as one of the references for my undergrad History thesis, and unless u don't read this book and compare it to other historical books or articles u won't be able to see certain "mistakes" - Tully was wrong on the numbers of deaths in the end, but who isn't. Even the White Papers were. He was very critical on proclaiming Bhindranwale as a terrorist when in fact Babbar Khalsa plays a huge role prior to the attack of 1984. Tully also dismissed the conflicts of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution. He made them sound petty, as if Sikhs were asking for too much. When in matter of fact, there was more to the rivers. In order to understand why the Sikhs felt oppressed, in a way - majority of the reasons reside in those regional conflicts. Regardless it was a good book, and he lays out everything perfectly in chronological order but it's not something one should solely deprive their opinions from.
August 27, 2017
I had always wondered about the reasons for Army's action in Operation Blue Star. This is a wonderful book detailing the history behind the storming of Golden Temple complex by the Army which also was a major cause for a rise in extremism in Punjab.
It chronicles the events leading to the decision of the Congress government to direct the Army to enter the temple to flush out Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his band of terrorists. It was a blot on the government and the most bitter consequence was the assassination of Indira Gandhi. It details the roles played by Akali Dal, Congress government, the Indian Army, Harcharan Singh Longowal, Zail Singh, Gurcharan Singh Tohra and significantly of Bhindranwale and his rise to notoriety.
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob, who used to work for BBC, has narrated a first hand account of the events leading up to one of the darkest moment in Indian history and it is truly commendable. The only minor irritant in the kindle version was the spellcheck errors which crept in. Being seasoned writers and journalists, the book would have been definitely edited thoroughly. So it might have been inadvertently crept in the electronic version. This can be a reference book for history buffs and people who are keen to learn about Operation Blue Star.
It chronicles the events leading to the decision of the Congress government to direct the Army to enter the temple to flush out Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his band of terrorists. It was a blot on the government and the most bitter consequence was the assassination of Indira Gandhi. It details the roles played by Akali Dal, Congress government, the Indian Army, Harcharan Singh Longowal, Zail Singh, Gurcharan Singh Tohra and significantly of Bhindranwale and his rise to notoriety.
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob, who used to work for BBC, has narrated a first hand account of the events leading up to one of the darkest moment in Indian history and it is truly commendable. The only minor irritant in the kindle version was the spellcheck errors which crept in. Being seasoned writers and journalists, the book would have been definitely edited thoroughly. So it might have been inadvertently crept in the electronic version. This can be a reference book for history buffs and people who are keen to learn about Operation Blue Star.
August 12, 2019
1984 is one of those years in Indian history that reek of blood. The rampant killings by the secessionist terrorists, the Indian army’s entry into the holiest of places for the Sikhs – the Golden Temple itself - to capture those terrorists, subsequent assassination of Indira Gandhi to avenge that ‘insult’, and the resultant pogroms that mercilessly butchered innocent Sikhs in and around Delhi – if all these didn’t shock the Indians enough, the year wrapped up with the Bhopal gas tragedy, which wiped out more than 2000 people overnight.
I am always fascinated by history, especially Indian history. But the problem with history is that you must view it through various perspectives in order to arrive at the real, clear picture. Identifying the correct, well-informed and unbiased sources of history is a big challenge, especially in an age where fake news and misinformation campaigns have really become a threat to the very fabric of human societies. This book by Mark Tully stands out for the very reason that it tries to bring out the facts of that time without being biased to any side. It places the blame on the culprits, gives credit where it is due and states the facts without giving us any hints to judge on a particular way.
Politicians across the globe have this bad habit of creating demons to do their sayings, but such demons have inevitably ended up haunting their own masters. The world recently, and painfully, learnt this lesson for the Nth time when Osama bin Laden, CIA’s poster boy in a cause against the Russians, perpetrated the worst terror attack on the American soil. Two decades before that, India also had such a radical, fundamentalist preacher whom the Congress politicians groomed for their narrow-minded political gains. Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was a preacher with radical notions but living in oblivion. Sanjay and his coterie brought him to the limelight in order to weaken their opposition in Punjab, the Akali Dal. But soon the sant, meaning ‘saint’, accumulated a lot of followers, grew more radical and became quite a brutal force to reckon with.
With support pouring in for him in all forms, Bhindranwale started running a parallel government, terrorizing not just the common people of Punjab but the very unity of this country. The spinelessness of the government led things to the breaking point, allowing the Sant to not just occupy the holy shrine of the Sikhs but to turn it into a fortress, amassing weapons and supplies to challenge the very might of the Indian army. The rest, as they say, is well-known history.
When I searched the web for a book on Operation Blue Star, this was one of those few that topped the list of reliable accounts. Having read this book, I could understand why. From briefing us about the early history of Punjab to describing those events that led to the crescendo that shook Delhi and caused deep divides in Indian society, it is all in here. Written in simple, flowing style, without being prejudiced against any of the parties involved in the conflict, this is a must-read for any lover of Indian history!
I am always fascinated by history, especially Indian history. But the problem with history is that you must view it through various perspectives in order to arrive at the real, clear picture. Identifying the correct, well-informed and unbiased sources of history is a big challenge, especially in an age where fake news and misinformation campaigns have really become a threat to the very fabric of human societies. This book by Mark Tully stands out for the very reason that it tries to bring out the facts of that time without being biased to any side. It places the blame on the culprits, gives credit where it is due and states the facts without giving us any hints to judge on a particular way.
Politicians across the globe have this bad habit of creating demons to do their sayings, but such demons have inevitably ended up haunting their own masters. The world recently, and painfully, learnt this lesson for the Nth time when Osama bin Laden, CIA’s poster boy in a cause against the Russians, perpetrated the worst terror attack on the American soil. Two decades before that, India also had such a radical, fundamentalist preacher whom the Congress politicians groomed for their narrow-minded political gains. Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was a preacher with radical notions but living in oblivion. Sanjay and his coterie brought him to the limelight in order to weaken their opposition in Punjab, the Akali Dal. But soon the sant, meaning ‘saint’, accumulated a lot of followers, grew more radical and became quite a brutal force to reckon with.
With support pouring in for him in all forms, Bhindranwale started running a parallel government, terrorizing not just the common people of Punjab but the very unity of this country. The spinelessness of the government led things to the breaking point, allowing the Sant to not just occupy the holy shrine of the Sikhs but to turn it into a fortress, amassing weapons and supplies to challenge the very might of the Indian army. The rest, as they say, is well-known history.
When I searched the web for a book on Operation Blue Star, this was one of those few that topped the list of reliable accounts. Having read this book, I could understand why. From briefing us about the early history of Punjab to describing those events that led to the crescendo that shook Delhi and caused deep divides in Indian society, it is all in here. Written in simple, flowing style, without being prejudiced against any of the parties involved in the conflict, this is a must-read for any lover of Indian history!
April 5, 2021
Who to blame for the Murders, Riots, Operation Blue Star and Assassintaaion of Indra Gandhi?
One can say that even Sub-Inspector Beant Singh was a victim himself, carried away by the anger which swept through the Sikh community, anger he had done nothing to create. It was the creation of those who had taken on the responsibility for leading the Sikh community and of those who had taken on the responsibility of governing India. It is very tempting simply to blame Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his brand of Sikh fundamentalism which was nurtured by hatred of Hindus but fundamentalism does not exist in a vacuum.
A must read if you want to know about Backward and Aftermath of the Operation Blue Star. I must say Author had been unapologetic throughout, book gives account of origin of Sikhism, Gurus, Hari Mandir sahib (Golden temple) [Where Hari is referred to Bhagwan Vishunu and it was four doors, which represent the four varna], Ranjit Singh, Sikhs during the Independence struggle (Which will raise question on sikhs say “Asi hindu nu bachaya si” Because Sikhs were loyal to the Britishers), Akali Dal, Bhindranwale and his hindumisia, Murder of those who oppose / critics Bhindranwala, Blue Star and the Mutiny in the Indian army.
And I would like to mention what MP Mrs Amarjit Kaur wrote after the Operation Blue Star Which I personally agree with -
“Actually the blow to the Sikh community has been quite profound. We thought we were the cat's whiskers. The saviour of all. But now it was seen that we did not have the guts to face the situation. We the Sikhs should have been the ones to throw Bhindranwale out of the premises of the Golden Temple. We are now finding it difficult to admit our own failure. Our so-called dynamism and bravery has disappeared.”
Adding to her statement, Fortification of Akal takht, Occupying the rooms above the Guru Granth Sahib, Manufacturing of the weapons in the temple complex, Killing in the temple complex, throwing grenades over civilians after they had surrendered. Why didn’t the sikh stand against it, some did and they were killed.
One can say that even Sub-Inspector Beant Singh was a victim himself, carried away by the anger which swept through the Sikh community, anger he had done nothing to create. It was the creation of those who had taken on the responsibility for leading the Sikh community and of those who had taken on the responsibility of governing India. It is very tempting simply to blame Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his brand of Sikh fundamentalism which was nurtured by hatred of Hindus but fundamentalism does not exist in a vacuum.
A must read if you want to know about Backward and Aftermath of the Operation Blue Star. I must say Author had been unapologetic throughout, book gives account of origin of Sikhism, Gurus, Hari Mandir sahib (Golden temple) [Where Hari is referred to Bhagwan Vishunu and it was four doors, which represent the four varna], Ranjit Singh, Sikhs during the Independence struggle (Which will raise question on sikhs say “Asi hindu nu bachaya si” Because Sikhs were loyal to the Britishers), Akali Dal, Bhindranwale and his hindumisia, Murder of those who oppose / critics Bhindranwala, Blue Star and the Mutiny in the Indian army.
And I would like to mention what MP Mrs Amarjit Kaur wrote after the Operation Blue Star Which I personally agree with -
“Actually the blow to the Sikh community has been quite profound. We thought we were the cat's whiskers. The saviour of all. But now it was seen that we did not have the guts to face the situation. We the Sikhs should have been the ones to throw Bhindranwale out of the premises of the Golden Temple. We are now finding it difficult to admit our own failure. Our so-called dynamism and bravery has disappeared.”
Adding to her statement, Fortification of Akal takht, Occupying the rooms above the Guru Granth Sahib, Manufacturing of the weapons in the temple complex, Killing in the temple complex, throwing grenades over civilians after they had surrendered. Why didn’t the sikh stand against it, some did and they were killed.
June 29, 2020
Its a good book to understand that incident. Those who don't what triggered that incident, you will get your answers
June 28, 2020
Read this book to understand operation blue star.
March 21, 2020
After visiting the Golden temple, I was very keen to know more about operation blue star - How? and Why? At what cost to human life and sentiments of Sikhs? What is achieved?
Mark Tulley, a very experienced journalist of BBC in India, explains it really well. I could get answers to these questions at a high level but in a bit more detail. The interviews of various people involved in this gave the perspective from all dimensions.
Mark Tulley, a very experienced journalist of BBC in India, explains it really well. I could get answers to these questions at a high level but in a bit more detail. The interviews of various people involved in this gave the perspective from all dimensions.
May 21, 2018
The precursor. The bloodbath. And the aftermath.
What bloody history!!!
Who was the villain, who was the hero? Who knows !!!
Is the corpse of a villain any different from that of a hero?
What bloody history!!!
Who was the villain, who was the hero? Who knows !!!
Is the corpse of a villain any different from that of a hero?
August 18, 2017
What a mess.
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob have written an impressive account of the machinations that brought about the assault on the Golden Temple, the most sacred place in the Sikh religion, and the subsequent death of Indira Ghandi at the hands of her Sikh bodyguards. This is all the more impressive in that the book came about a year after the events (it was published in 1985).
There is plenty of blame to go around. Officials at the Punjabi state level, the Indian national government, the Congress party, the Akali Dal (a political party representing the Sikh’s), the SGPC (the body that managed the Golden Temple) and Indira Gandhi herself, all took part in promoting, then placating, Jarnal Singh Bhindranwale, a dangerous Sikh preacher who eventually became a law unto himself and inspired and/or ordered a series terrorist acts in the state of Punjab.
Highly recommended for those wishing to learn more about modern Indian history.
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob have written an impressive account of the machinations that brought about the assault on the Golden Temple, the most sacred place in the Sikh religion, and the subsequent death of Indira Ghandi at the hands of her Sikh bodyguards. This is all the more impressive in that the book came about a year after the events (it was published in 1985).
There is plenty of blame to go around. Officials at the Punjabi state level, the Indian national government, the Congress party, the Akali Dal (a political party representing the Sikh’s), the SGPC (the body that managed the Golden Temple) and Indira Gandhi herself, all took part in promoting, then placating, Jarnal Singh Bhindranwale, a dangerous Sikh preacher who eventually became a law unto himself and inspired and/or ordered a series terrorist acts in the state of Punjab.
Highly recommended for those wishing to learn more about modern Indian history.
September 13, 2022
"Twentieth century ideologies like progressive capitalism, socialism and even communism exist only in name in India. They have not taken any genuine political form. So those who fear for their traditional privileges and those whose expectations of a better life are frustrated fall back on the ancient divisions of Indian society, caste and creed, to fight their battles."
June 2, 2014
Reasonably unbiased account. I strongly recommend this for people who do not have any background knowledge of Punjab insurgency. Since it is one of the earlier books on the subject, it does not throw any new light on it. Most of the facts and interpretations are fairly well known and are in the public domain by now. A great resource to develop basic understanding of the events leading to Operation Blue Star and the overall militancy problem in Punjab. The interpretations and analysis closely resemble those of M J Akbar in 'The Siege Within'.
Only one real blemish - Mark Tully's soft corner for Mrs Gandhi and her policies is evident. Presentation of facts that explain Mrs. Gandhi's culpability in the whole affair is unbiased, the interpretations are a touch merciful to her. The writer was way too optimistic about Rajiv Gandhi back then, something evident in the last chapter. Can't really blame him for that, everyone in India had the very high hopes from Rajiv back in the day.
Only one real blemish - Mark Tully's soft corner for Mrs Gandhi and her policies is evident. Presentation of facts that explain Mrs. Gandhi's culpability in the whole affair is unbiased, the interpretations are a touch merciful to her. The writer was way too optimistic about Rajiv Gandhi back then, something evident in the last chapter. Can't really blame him for that, everyone in India had the very high hopes from Rajiv back in the day.
October 2, 2023
A very well documented and authentic read on the Punjab problem, it's origins and the course of its progress leading to the Operation Blue Star. Mark Tully and Satish Jacob have done a well researched journalistic endeavour in writing this book which gives in much details, the rise of Bhindranwale and his cult across the Punjab. How he was a creation of the Congress and Akali electoral politics and how he rose to become a frankenstein for Mrs. Gandhi.
The book is also remarkable for its detailed account of the army raid on the Akal Takht giving a comprehensive picture of the Bhindranwale's militia, his absolute control over the Golden Temple, his trafficking and ransom operations, the demoralised Punjab police, the way the army did it's raid, the tank manoeuvres and the protracted exchange of gunfire and the final flushing out of the terrorists from the holy shrine. Also recorded is the event's aftermath including the army mutiny at places and the assassination of Mrs. Gandhi.
The authors took many eye witness accounts and referred records to come up with this book. Standing in contrast to the current state of media in our country, this work is well researched, thought provoking and much eloquent. This indeed qualifies for journalistic writing at its very best.
The book is also remarkable for its detailed account of the army raid on the Akal Takht giving a comprehensive picture of the Bhindranwale's militia, his absolute control over the Golden Temple, his trafficking and ransom operations, the demoralised Punjab police, the way the army did it's raid, the tank manoeuvres and the protracted exchange of gunfire and the final flushing out of the terrorists from the holy shrine. Also recorded is the event's aftermath including the army mutiny at places and the assassination of Mrs. Gandhi.
The authors took many eye witness accounts and referred records to come up with this book. Standing in contrast to the current state of media in our country, this work is well researched, thought provoking and much eloquent. This indeed qualifies for journalistic writing at its very best.
June 20, 2022
Brilliant writing. A comprehensive book about the tough phase which our country and Punjab has faced. What was the reason for the rise of Jarnail singh Bhindrawala and his trademark violence and hatred. Mark Tully and Satish Jacob have brilliantly narrated the whole complex scenario. The situations, ambitions, broken promises, vote bank politics and indecisions which allowed the Punjab question to fester. The then Prime minister acted, but with "too much too late". A classic case where internal security challenge got clouded with narrow political interests and communal brand of activism. After loosing the PM of the country, Delhi riots, unknown number of deaths and shattered inter-community trust and harmony, we again stand at the cross roads, where, same questions about Khalistan are again in the air. India needs to tread this path carefully.
March 26, 2017
Quite unbiased take on the events leading up to operation bluestar and Indira Gandhi's assassination. I'd recommend this book to anyone who is curious about what transpired during those times. You can use this book as a reference and first step to do some research of your own on operation bluestar.
March 26, 2019
Well written first hand account on notorious Blue Star Operation.
Must read...
Must read...
March 12, 2023
History is rarely kind to rulers and the botched up handling of aspirations through a PM who did not have her ears to the ground and state politicians who made a deal with the devil, could not have ended well. Lives were lost, sentiments were hurt and entire institutions were waylaid. Very important learnings for the present times.
October 3, 2019
Excellent real-time narrative of Operation Blue Star as Golden Temple by Mrs Indira Gandhi government.
November 19, 2017
Although this book gives a detailed view of the events DURING the hours of Operation Blue Star, I think it commits erroneous and fallacious arguments towards the Sikhs. Tully opens the book with a Preface in which he affirms the reader that the text is compiled without biases and merely tells a story, but this is certainly not the case. In the opening chapter, author paints a label on Mrs. Gandhi as the woman who dominated Indian politics with vanity and pride, whereas Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale is described as a "Sikh fundamentalist turned terrorist." Tully repeatedly uses words like terrorist, insurgents, fundamentalists, fanatics to describe the Sikhs and Bhindrawale throughout the book whereas, the author at first suggested he merely wants to tell a unbiased story of both sides. An unbiased author does not force his/her readers to take a stand with one side vs the other. It should be up to the reader what he/she wants to conclude AFTER reading the text.
The book also goes into long tangents and dialogues which have no resemblance to issues leading up to Mrs. Gandhi's last battle. Information like history of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his personal life have little to no impact on the story told.
Tully repeatedly speaks of the killings in Punjab, outside gurdwaras, buses, throughout India and although while mentioning them, he admits they were "allegedly linked" to Bhindrawale and his followers, he later goes on to say, without discussing proof, Bhindrawale was giving out death sentences and committing murders of whomever he pleased. Directly concluding to the reader that Bhindrawale WAS responsible for those killings. Correlation does not necessarily lead to causation, yet another fallacy Tully commits in this book.
I think the text during the Operation are more logically written where the author clearly states eye-witness testimony and points to the reader when he isn't able to confirm a certain fact. Accounts given by army personnel along with pilgrims inside the temple are clearly stated in the later half of the book which provide reader with a better understanding of the circumstances inside the temple and Indian army's behaviors.
On a final note, I feel about half of this book is directly related to its title which gives accurate, unbiased and logical accounts of the events leading up to Operation Blue Star and Mrs. Gandhi's death but the rest of the book does throw a stigma on the Sikhs and Bhindrawale himself or it goes on long tangents about irrelevant facts which have no correlation to what happened during those times.
The book also goes into long tangents and dialogues which have no resemblance to issues leading up to Mrs. Gandhi's last battle. Information like history of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his personal life have little to no impact on the story told.
Tully repeatedly speaks of the killings in Punjab, outside gurdwaras, buses, throughout India and although while mentioning them, he admits they were "allegedly linked" to Bhindrawale and his followers, he later goes on to say, without discussing proof, Bhindrawale was giving out death sentences and committing murders of whomever he pleased. Directly concluding to the reader that Bhindrawale WAS responsible for those killings. Correlation does not necessarily lead to causation, yet another fallacy Tully commits in this book.
I think the text during the Operation are more logically written where the author clearly states eye-witness testimony and points to the reader when he isn't able to confirm a certain fact. Accounts given by army personnel along with pilgrims inside the temple are clearly stated in the later half of the book which provide reader with a better understanding of the circumstances inside the temple and Indian army's behaviors.
On a final note, I feel about half of this book is directly related to its title which gives accurate, unbiased and logical accounts of the events leading up to Operation Blue Star and Mrs. Gandhi's death but the rest of the book does throw a stigma on the Sikhs and Bhindrawale himself or it goes on long tangents about irrelevant facts which have no correlation to what happened during those times.
July 22, 2022
Yikes. Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was a terror.
Firstly, it was interesting to read an account of a 1984 event written in 1985. Life certainly seemed different back then. Those that tended to autocracy were reined in by other parts of society. I was amazed to read fearless critiques of politicians by serving army officers, journalists and even bureaucrats. India needs that again.
Secondly, the book is very well written for the most part. Covers bits of Indian politics, Sikhism and profiles of the dramatis personae. It calls everyone out for their failings, yet does not shy away from admitting that some decisions were the right ones to take despite being damn tough to take.
The opening section of the book describing Mrs Gandhi's death had me completely hooked.
Minor annoyances include a myriad of typographical and spelling errors, and a rather lengthy and boring chapter on the fallout of Operation Blue Star.
Solid read, though. Highly recommended.
Firstly, it was interesting to read an account of a 1984 event written in 1985. Life certainly seemed different back then. Those that tended to autocracy were reined in by other parts of society. I was amazed to read fearless critiques of politicians by serving army officers, journalists and even bureaucrats. India needs that again.
Secondly, the book is very well written for the most part. Covers bits of Indian politics, Sikhism and profiles of the dramatis personae. It calls everyone out for their failings, yet does not shy away from admitting that some decisions were the right ones to take despite being damn tough to take.
The opening section of the book describing Mrs Gandhi's death had me completely hooked.
Minor annoyances include a myriad of typographical and spelling errors, and a rather lengthy and boring chapter on the fallout of Operation Blue Star.
Solid read, though. Highly recommended.
August 10, 2018
The book is very engaging.Authors have given multiple point of views for all course of actions.As it is written by reporters, so they have provided access to then ground level as well political class opinions.Assessments and inferences are value neutral as well as objective for most of the part.
But author being British has made allusions to black hole tragedy.This incident was used to rouse British public opinion by English press against Nawab Siraj ud daulah.This theory is completely rejected by historians of independent India.So it was unfortunate that author used it.
Author explained how Indira Gandhi,akalis and other politicians created a situation that gained momentum of its own and it went beyond their control.It also give good insights about communalism in India and why it is a political problem.
All in all it is a good read.
But author being British has made allusions to black hole tragedy.This incident was used to rouse British public opinion by English press against Nawab Siraj ud daulah.This theory is completely rejected by historians of independent India.So it was unfortunate that author used it.
Author explained how Indira Gandhi,akalis and other politicians created a situation that gained momentum of its own and it went beyond their control.It also give good insights about communalism in India and why it is a political problem.
All in all it is a good read.
March 5, 2018
A must read if you want to know about Operation Bluestar's background and aftermath. Mr.Tully's writing style with tightly packed well researched information makes this book looks like a fiction and reads like one too. I learned a lot about Sikh and Punjab history through this book. The highlight of this book are the chapters. "Sikhs" and "Operation Bluestar". The later revealed lot of hour by hour account of the unknown information about this operation.
What saddened me the most was to learn that like always ,in the name of politics an easily reconcilable and avoidable issue was not solved on time which resulted in bloodshed of so many.
Highly recommended.
What saddened me the most was to learn that like always ,in the name of politics an easily reconcilable and avoidable issue was not solved on time which resulted in bloodshed of so many.
Highly recommended.
March 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, which taught me a lot about an event I had previously known nothing about. I appreciated how the authors backed up their claims with credible evidence (as far as I could tell) and made an effort to display all sides of such a multifaceted issue and moment in history. I came out of the book feeling like I knew each party’s role and responsibility at at least a basic level.
The book was also pretty engaging, so I’d recommend for anyone interested in diving into a deeply unfortunate moment in history and sorting out how the pieces fit together.
The book was also pretty engaging, so I’d recommend for anyone interested in diving into a deeply unfortunate moment in history and sorting out how the pieces fit together.
October 11, 2024
“[The Punjab crisis of the 1980s] was the creation of those who had taken on the responsibility for leading the Sikh community, of those who had taken on the responsibility of governing India, and of the times in which they were living. It is very tempting simply to blame Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his brand of Sikh fundamentalism which was nurtured by hatred of Hindus, but fundamentalism does not exist in a vacuum. … Mrs Gandhi was responsible for the political atmosphere which made the fundamentalism of Bhindranwale relevant. The Akali Dal Trinity [Prakash Singh Badal, Harchand Singh Longowal and Gurcharan Singh Tohra] must also bear their share of responsibility. Badal and Longowal lacked the courage to stand out against a force they knew was evil. Tohra tried to use it for his own ends. … It was Indira Gandhi’s Congress Party which launched Bhindranwale, and it was Indira Gandhi’s government which allowed him to usurp its role in Punjab.” (p. 230)
Strong words?
No. Those of us who have lived through those dark days know they are not strong enough.
Mark Tully, probably the best known British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) journalist in India and his colleague, Satish Jacob, have pieced together the chain of events that led to the assault on the Sikhism’s Holiest of Holy, that threatened the very integrity of the country and led to the assassination of a Prime Minister.
Forty years later, the country has definitely moved on.
So, is it necessary to read this book now, however well-written, when the vast majority of Indians have forgotten about the events and the young ones are not even aware of what happened?
The short answer is: yes.
Punjab – and India – may have left behind the memories of those difficult days. But nearly quarter of a century into the new millennium, what has not changed is the perfidy of the politician. He – and increasingly she – can stoop to any low to cling on to power. You can find an important political leader calling into question the sanctity of the election process simply because his party failed to win it. You can find a Chief Minister who is more than eager to shield those who raped and murdered a doctor in her workplace simply because that is politically expedient. You can find a politician refusing to give up the chair of the Chief Minister even when he is behind the bars simply because the perceived aura of martyrdom is expected to yield rich dividends in the elections.
Freedom is too precious a commodity to be left in the custody of the politician alone.
This ancient land is a rich tapestry of religions, languages, culture, memories. If that unravels because of the greed and chicanery of the politician, the country will be the only loser.
Looking at those events of four decades ago through the eyes of a sympathetic British journalist provides a much-needed perspective. That Amritsar: Mrs Gandhi’s Last Battle (Rupa Publications India), originally published in 1985, is in its twenty-sixth impression in 2024 is heartening.
Strong words?
No. Those of us who have lived through those dark days know they are not strong enough.
Mark Tully, probably the best known British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) journalist in India and his colleague, Satish Jacob, have pieced together the chain of events that led to the assault on the Sikhism’s Holiest of Holy, that threatened the very integrity of the country and led to the assassination of a Prime Minister.
Forty years later, the country has definitely moved on.
So, is it necessary to read this book now, however well-written, when the vast majority of Indians have forgotten about the events and the young ones are not even aware of what happened?
The short answer is: yes.
Punjab – and India – may have left behind the memories of those difficult days. But nearly quarter of a century into the new millennium, what has not changed is the perfidy of the politician. He – and increasingly she – can stoop to any low to cling on to power. You can find an important political leader calling into question the sanctity of the election process simply because his party failed to win it. You can find a Chief Minister who is more than eager to shield those who raped and murdered a doctor in her workplace simply because that is politically expedient. You can find a politician refusing to give up the chair of the Chief Minister even when he is behind the bars simply because the perceived aura of martyrdom is expected to yield rich dividends in the elections.
Freedom is too precious a commodity to be left in the custody of the politician alone.
This ancient land is a rich tapestry of religions, languages, culture, memories. If that unravels because of the greed and chicanery of the politician, the country will be the only loser.
Looking at those events of four decades ago through the eyes of a sympathetic British journalist provides a much-needed perspective. That Amritsar: Mrs Gandhi’s Last Battle (Rupa Publications India), originally published in 1985, is in its twenty-sixth impression in 2024 is heartening.
August 25, 2017
Indira Gandhi choose to handle the Sikh operation exactly how she had planned the delicate East Pakistan Operation in 1971. She appealed to the international media, she blamed the 'foreign hand' and avoided all direct connection with the popular leadership of the Sikhs. But where East Pakistan Operation had elevated her to Durga, Operation Bluestar resulted in her inglorious death. As Durga Maa, she surrounded herself with sycophants which further increased her distance from the political reality in Punjab. General Zia did well to keep away from inciting Durga Maa otherwise Indira would have had no compulsions in attacking another war with Pakistan to boost her waning popularity at home.
The book details the political and cultural context of Sikhs in India as well as the actual operation on Sikhs holiest place. Mark Tully is not shy with his opinions on the delicate issue. Indira Gandhi was the main culprit who was guilty of political ineptitude and was guilty mismanaging the who affair. If her son was able to come to an agreement with the same Akali Dal party which was the villain party in Operation Bluestar then why couldn't she come to a political settlement? This was the same Indira Gandhi which was constantly lecturing General Yehya Khan to reach a political settlement with Mujib ur Rehman in 1971. It's far too easy to lecture others, isn't it?
The book details the political and cultural context of Sikhs in India as well as the actual operation on Sikhs holiest place. Mark Tully is not shy with his opinions on the delicate issue. Indira Gandhi was the main culprit who was guilty of political ineptitude and was guilty mismanaging the who affair. If her son was able to come to an agreement with the same Akali Dal party which was the villain party in Operation Bluestar then why couldn't she come to a political settlement? This was the same Indira Gandhi which was constantly lecturing General Yehya Khan to reach a political settlement with Mujib ur Rehman in 1971. It's far too easy to lecture others, isn't it?
June 15, 2025
A fascinating book about one of the darkest periods in modern India’s history : Operation Blue Star in the Golden Temple which led to the assassination of Indira Gandhi.
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob were BBC correspondents in India who witnessed the events which led to Blue Star - the rise of the extremist leader Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale who unleashed a reign of terror in Punjab in the early 80s. Initially fostered and surreptitiously promoted by the Congress Govt under Mrs. Gandhi, Bhindranwale like Frankenstein’s monster turned against his creator and ran his campaign of terror from within the premises of the Golden Temple. After dithering and losing many opportunities to nip this in the bud, Gandhi finally ordered the Army to enter the temple premises and flush out Bhindranwale. However the army had underestimated the readiness and tenacity of Bhindranwale’s followers, which led to severe collateral human damage on both sides and near destruction of the temple premises. The outrage against this sacrilege was what drove Mrs Gandhi’s security guard, a Sikh officer, to pump her
body with bullets - the first Indian prime minister to be assassinated.
While I had heard of Blue Star and Bhindranwale before, reading about the details in Tully’s wonderful prose, gives a much deeper understanding about it.
Mark Tully and Satish Jacob were BBC correspondents in India who witnessed the events which led to Blue Star - the rise of the extremist leader Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale who unleashed a reign of terror in Punjab in the early 80s. Initially fostered and surreptitiously promoted by the Congress Govt under Mrs. Gandhi, Bhindranwale like Frankenstein’s monster turned against his creator and ran his campaign of terror from within the premises of the Golden Temple. After dithering and losing many opportunities to nip this in the bud, Gandhi finally ordered the Army to enter the temple premises and flush out Bhindranwale. However the army had underestimated the readiness and tenacity of Bhindranwale’s followers, which led to severe collateral human damage on both sides and near destruction of the temple premises. The outrage against this sacrilege was what drove Mrs Gandhi’s security guard, a Sikh officer, to pump her
body with bullets - the first Indian prime minister to be assassinated.
While I had heard of Blue Star and Bhindranwale before, reading about the details in Tully’s wonderful prose, gives a much deeper understanding about it.
January 24, 2020
For someone born in the 90s, events from 1984 were too recent for history books and just enough in the past that people had stopped talking about it. I was a full adult before I realized that I knew very little about the era of India that preceded me, that may have been the main motivation to pick this book up.
The book is by all means a decent account of the events that led to operation Blue Star and it's immediate aftermath. It's balanced and well researched. I for one was hoping (perhaps wrongfully so) for more color in it's narration; the book maintains the even tone of straightforward journalism and let's the events speak for themselves.
Recent events in the Indian political landscape tells me that it's political class, no matter the ruling party, repeatedly plays a ham fisted role in handling communal tensions in the country - with the same devastating consequences. I wish people read more books on history.
The book is by all means a decent account of the events that led to operation Blue Star and it's immediate aftermath. It's balanced and well researched. I for one was hoping (perhaps wrongfully so) for more color in it's narration; the book maintains the even tone of straightforward journalism and let's the events speak for themselves.
Recent events in the Indian political landscape tells me that it's political class, no matter the ruling party, repeatedly plays a ham fisted role in handling communal tensions in the country - with the same devastating consequences. I wish people read more books on history.
August 5, 2017
An useful book which explains the basics of Punjab insurgency that ended up swallowing thousands of lives which includes the only woman Prime Minister we have had. Though published in 1985,the book's conclusions still hold value for today's India. There is a line by Mark Tully : " Rajiv Gandhi wants to take India into the 21st century. He will have to bring the institutions of India into the 20th century first." Sadly, Rajiv Gandhi's name can be replaced by the names of all successive prime ministers and the line will still sound true.
June 30, 2022
It is really well written and informative. Book starts with a brief history of Sikhs, the long drawn roots of the movement, how it turned into terrorism, to the army operation and its aftermath. And how Punjab government machinery stood meek observer to inhuman killing of innocent people. As pointed out in the book political leadership of the time was more to blame- Government did “too much too late”. Too much because they acted too late which closed all the moderate options. Too late because a movement of small issues was allowed to grow into terrorism. It is a must read to understand the blue star operation.
August 27, 2022
The best part of the book is the critical attitude of the author which is the mere essence of journalism, to present the facts as raw and as unbiased as they are along with putting relevant questions in the mind of the readers.
This book is a must read for anyone to get a political view on the issue.
This book is a must read for anyone to get a political view on the issue.
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