Baku Initiative Group, International Sikh Federation forge cooperation pact PHOTO

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) and the International Sikh Federation have signed a memorandum of cooperation.

The agreement was signed by BIG Executive Director Abbas Abbasov and International Sikh Federation Chairman Moninder Singh during the international conference "Amritsar June 1984: Transnational Repression as an Extension of Genocide" held in Baku, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The memorandum is aimed at expanding cooperation in the fields of academic, historical, and cultural research. It envisages cultural and scientific exchanges, as well as visits by researchers, historians, cultural experts, academics, and other specialists to take part in consultations, discussions, and research-related activities. The document also provides for the organisation of conferences, roundtables, and other events.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Abbasov noted that the memorandum would make a positive contribution to strengthening cooperation between the Baku Initiative Group and the International Sikh Federation.

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region by Guru Nanak in the late 15th century. The faith emphasises equality, justice, service to humanity, and the rejection of caste distinctions, with Sikhs regarding the Guru Granth Sahib as their eternal spiritual authority.

A core principle of Sikhism is that all people are equal regardless of caste, gender, or social status. The Sikh tradition of sewa (selfless service) encourages community welfare and humanitarian assistance without discrimination.

Following the assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in October 1984, large-scale anti-Sikh violence erupted in several parts of India, particularly in Delhi. Human Rights Watch has documented that despite numerous eyewitness accounts implicating political figures and police officers, accountability and prosecutions remained limited for many years.

The legacy of the 1984 anti-Sikh violence remains a significant issue for many Sikhs worldwide, with survivors and advocacy groups continuing to seek justice and recognition for victims decades after the attacks.

By Jeyhun Aghazada