A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor from Delhi has issued a public apology after a video of her confronting an African national, who is a football coach, and demanding he learn Hindi within a month sparked widespread condemnation online.
Controversial Confrontation Goes Viral
The incident involved BJP councillor Renu Chaudhary from the Patparganj ward. In a now-viral video, Chaudhary was seen at a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) park telling the football coach that he must learn Hindi within a month or leave Delhi. The park is used by children for play and coaching sessions. Her remarks, perceived as intemperate and targeting an African national, quickly drew fierce criticism across social media platforms.
Swift Party Action and Public Apology
Facing intense backlash, the Delhi BJP unit swiftly summoned Councillor Renu Chaudhary on Tuesday. Following this disciplinary action, she publicly expressed regret for her comments.
In an apology video uploaded to social media, Chaudhary stated, "The MCD park is meant for children to play and receive coaching. We will provide whatever facilities are needed there." She added, "If anyone's sentiments were hurt by my language, I apologise. I hope the children continue to play in the park." She emphasised that she had no intention of hurting anyone's feelings.
Delhi BJP Leadership Condemns Behaviour
Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva explicitly disapproved of the councillor's conduct. He underscored that sports transcends language barriers. "Sports has no language, and the manner in which our councillor behaved was not appropriate," Sachdeva said.
He confirmed that Chaudhary was counselled about her mistake, which led to her expression of regret and the public apology. Furthermore, Sachdeva announced that he has directed the local party unit to meet with the affected coach and the children to assess and provide any necessary facilities for their sporting activities in the park.
The episode highlights the sensitivity required in public discourse, especially in a diverse city like Delhi, and demonstrates the party's quick response to control the fallout from the controversial remarks.
