Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar's name resurfaces periodically due to several factors that keep the issue fresh and relevant in Indian politics.
1. **Political Leverage:** Bhullar's case is often strategically utilized by various organizations and political parties to gain leverage or attack their adversaries. For instance, the Akali Dal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have engaged in blame games, accusing each other of obstructing Bhullar's release. The rejection of Bhullar's release plea by the Delhi government's Sentence Review Board (SRB) fueled further controversy and political maneuvering.
2. **Symbolism in Punjab:** Bhullar's case holds significant symbolic value in Punjab, particularly concerning justice and communal sentiment. Political parties like the AAP, which position themselves as champions of Sikh rights, face scrutiny over their handling of Bhullar's case, especially in the run-up to elections.
3. **Khalistani Connections:** Bhullar's association with Khalistani outfits keeps the issue alive, particularly in the context of alleged funding from banned Khalistani groups to political parties. Allegations of AAP receiving funding from Khalistani outfits to secure Bhullar's release have further fueled controversy and brought Bhullar back into the limelight.
4. **Legal Battles and Rejections:** Despite the Supreme Court commuting Bhullar's death sentence to life imprisonment, his repeated pleas for premature release have been rejected multiple times. The recent rejection by the SRB of the Delhi government reignited debates and political tensions surrounding Bhullar's incarceration.
5. **Human Rights Concerns:** Bhullar's prolonged incarceration, despite concerns about his health and legal battles for release, has raised human rights issues. Accusations of violating Bhullar's human rights have been leveled against political leaders involved in his case, adding another layer of significance to the ongoing discourse.
In summary, Bhullar's case remains fresh and relevant due to its symbolic importance in Punjab, its ties to Khalistani outfits, ongoing legal battles, and the broader political implications it carries for various parties and stakeholders involved.
