Before delving into the specific incidents of attacks on Hindu temples in Punjab prior to May 1984, it’s essential to understand the broader socio-political context of that time.

The late 1970s and early 1980s witnessed a surge in Sikh militancy in Punjab, primarily spearheaded by groups advocating for an independent Sikh state called Khalistan. This period, characterized by heightened sectarian tensions, saw various acts of violence perpetrated by these militant factions. Among their targets were prominent Hindu temples, which were seen as potent symbols of India’s majority Hindu culture.

These attacks were not just acts of religious desecration but were also intended to strike fear into the hearts of the Hindu community and challenge the authority of the Indian state. The following list details some of these specific incidents, shedding light on the intensity and scale of the unrest during this tumultuous period in Punjab’s history.