A recently published book shed light on important moment in Indian history, showing that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi stopped her son, Rajiv Gandhi, from going to two proposed meetings with Sikh militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. These meetings, planned between 1982 and 1984, were meant to negotiate and handle growing tensions in Punjab.

According book, first meeting was scheduled in 1982, with Rajiv and Congress MP Amarinder Singh traveling to Ambala to meet Bhindranwale. But they were recalled before reach airport, and meeting was canceled because of security worries and possible risks.

Second attempt happened in 1984, with Rajiv again on way to meet Bhindranwale. This time, pilot got instruction to return, as Punjab Chief Minister Darbara Singh warned about possible ambush. Canceling these meetings reportedly anger Bhindranwale, who then fortified himself inside Golden Temple complex in Amritsar, leading to Operation Blue Star.

Book suggests that missing these opportunities for dialogue, influenced by political decisions and security concerns, maybe added to escalation of situation, leading to tragic events of 1984. It also raises questions about role of political decisions in solving conflicts and how different approaches maybe could change outcomes during that critical time.

This revelation give new perspective to understanding of 1984 crisis, showing complexities and challenges leaders faced during time of national trouble.