Jallianwala Bagh at 107: Kin seek representation, flag VIP curbs

Amritsar: As tributes were paid to those who fell to the British Raj's bullets at Jallianwala Bagh 107 years ago, families of the martyrs sought representation in the trust governing the memorial and flagged restricted public access during VIP visits.The Jallianwala Bagh Shaheed Parivar Samiti (JBSPS) on Monday urged the Centre to nominate at least one martyr's descendant to the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust, calling it a "true tribute" to those killed in 1919. The demand comes amid criticism that the trust is dominated by political appointees rather than affected families.A heavy rush was seen at the site, with many visitors waiting long to enter. Several complained that VIP movements disrupted access on a day of national significance.Dilkhush Singh, who travelled from Kurukshetra with his children, said he faced delays due to restricted entry. "We came to teach our children about history and sacrifice, but the wait has been frustrating," he said.JBSPS general secretary Nanish Behal criticised "VIP culture overshadowing public sentiment" and suggested limiting dignitary events to fixed hours to ensure smoother public access.He also sought transparency, urging the govt to release an authenticated list of martyrs. "People deserve to know their exact number and identities," he said.The demand comes amid concerns over political nominations to the trust. Its members' term expired in 2023.Under the 2019 amendment to the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, the PM chairs the trust, with the culture minister, Lok Sabha LoP (or leader of the largest opposition party), Punjab governor, Punjab CM, and three eminent persons as members. The Congress president was removed as a permanent trustee after the amendment.Deputy commissioner Dalwinderjeet Singh paid floral tributes, saying the martyrs' sacrifice sowed the seeds of freedom. Painting competitions were also held for students to commemorate the occasion.