As the world’s attention fell on Harmanpreet Kaur last week during her epic 171-run performance in the Women’s World Cup semi-final, the India team bats-woman used her shirt to remember victims of the 1984 Sikh genocide.
Wearing the number 84 shirt, it was after her amazing performance against Australia on July 20 when the reason for the choice of number went viral, with many applauding the female sport star’s constant recognition for the victims of one of India’s most horrific periods in recent history.
“I am very emotional when it comes to my roots. The 1984 anti-Sikh riots were very unfortunate. I did not lose any relative during the riots but innocent people were the victims. Whatever I have achieved so far is dedicated to my community and to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots victims”- Harmanpreet Kaur
Harmanpreet’s mother, Sukhjeet Kaur explained the reason behind her jersey number before the tournament started off. In an interview with Indian Express, she said,
“When she picked up her jersey, she chose the jersey number 84. For Punjabis, 84 brings back the memories of the 1984 riots. But she took it positively and now we also see it as a good sign for her. She dedicates all her victories to the victims of the riots.”
Not just in international events like ICC World Cup, Kaur has also promoted and worn 84 no. jersey in domestic tournaments.
The Punjab-based player is being felicitated in her home state after her ground-breaking performance in the World Cup. Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh just announced a cash prize of five lakh rupees and offered her a position of DSP in the Punjab Police. The Indian railways promoted her to a gazetted post.
Note – SinghStation categorically refute language around the 1984 Sikh genocide which calls the massacres “riots”. Although this language has become common place as a reflection of the Indian media narrative, it does not accurately portray the horrific scale of the slaughters which took place across India.