Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was a prominent Sikh leader and politician in India during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He became the face of the Sikh separatist movement, advocating for the rights of Sikhs and promoting the idea of an independent Sikh state called Khalistan. His speeches and sermons attracted a large following, particularly among the Sikh youth. Bhindranwale's influence grew significantly, leading to tensions between the Sikh community and the Indian government. This culminated in the infamous Operation Blue Star in June 1984, when the Indian Army stormed the Golden Temple in Amritsar to remove him and his armed supporters. The operation resulted in significant casualties and damage, further escalating the conflict.