This is the front page of The Indian Express published on June 27, 1984, Forty Years Ago.
A notable Nihang sect chief, Nihal Singh Harianbelanwale was arrested by security forces, at his headquarters in Hoshiarpur district on June 27. Security officers received a tip-off from a suspected terrorist regarding Singh’s location. Arms and ammunition were also recovered from the location, which is suspected to be a terrorist hide-out.
Eye On Pak Front
Following the continuation of Pakistani media’s anti-India narrative and suspicions of “a foreign hand” in Punjab, a committee of MPs was convened to discuss reports of Pakistan’s nuclear developments, aided by China. External Affairs minister, P V Narasimha Rao whilst addressing committee concerns, said that the government was keeping a close eye on nuclear programmes in the neighbourhood.
Bengal Floods
The Army and Air Force were called into West Bengal to carry out relief and rescue operations in flood-affected areas of the state. Nineteen people were believed to have drowned in the flooding on the Sali River in Bankura district when a relief boat capsized on June 27. Two children and 75 cows were also said to be trapped in an abandoned mine in Bardhaman district. Rescue operations are being carried out in both locations.
UK Clarifies Role
Amidst rumours of correspondence between Delhi and London regarding British Special Air Services (SAS) units training Sri Lankan regiments, a spokesperson of Britain’s foreign office has clarified that there are no British servicemen or personnel training troops in Sri Lanka. The presence of former SAS units was due to a commercial arrangement under a private firm.
