Braving raging mob: How a Kerala professor saved Sikh lives during the 1984 riots

Thiruvananthapuram: On the night of November 1, 1984, while the country was gripped by fear and violence following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi the previous day, one Malayali woman showed incredible courage. Saraswathi Nair, a political science professor at Maitreyi College in Delhi, recalls how she helped a Sikh family escape the riots that engulfed the city.

A call for help

Saraswathi lived in an apartment in Dhaula Kuan in Delhi with her husband, Major General N. S. Nair, when she received an urgent call from Rupa Singh, the wife of a family friend, Dalbir Singh. Rupa’s voice trembled with fear as she told Saraswati that rioters were approaching their home in Neeti Bagh. Without hesitation, Saraswati responded, “Here I come.” At midnight, she and her driver rushed to help the frightened family.

Facing the chaos

As they drove towards Neeti Bagh, the reality of the situation became increasingly alarming. They saw Sikh shops ablaze and a car on fire near Nanakpura Gurudwara. When Saraswathi arrived, she found 11 people, including Rupa, her mother-in-law, two sisters, and their children waiting anxiously for her. The sight of their fear only strengthened Saraswathi's resolve.

To protect the children, Saraswathi quickly removed the boys' Sikh symbols, including turbans and handkerchiefs, before loading everyone into the car. With the rioters closing in, she drove away as fast as she could, narrowly avoiding those who tried to block their escape. Once they reached safety, Saraswathi laid the children on the ground, relieved that they were safe.

Aftermath of the riots

In the days that followed, anti-Sikh riots erupted across Delhi, claiming the lives of an estimated 3,000 Sikhs. Rupa and her family stayed with Saraswathi until the violence subsided. The bond formed that night endures to this day, as both families continue to cherish their connection.

Even on the 40th anniversary of Indira Gandhi's death, Saraswathi received a call from Dalbir Singh and Rupa Singh, recalling the harrowing night and the gratitude they still feel. Now residing in Thiruvananthapuram, Saraswathi enjoys a peaceful life while staying in touch with her friends, who often reach out to inquire about her well-being.

Saraswathi and her husband are now enjoying a peaceful life at their home in Thiruvananthapuram, while all three of their children live abroad. Dalbir Singh, Rupa, and their family visit them sometimes as well.