Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator from Punjab, Inderbir Singh Nijjar, issued a strong condemnation on Saturday against Uttarakhand Congress leader Harak Singh Rawat for an alleged derogatory comment directed at a Sikh individual. Nijjar demanded an immediate apology from the Congress party and stringent disciplinary action against Rawat.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
The controversy stems from a video clip that has been circulating widely on social media platforms. The footage purportedly shows Harak Singh Rawat, during a political rally, mocking a Sikh man using the phrase "12 baj gaye." This phrase is considered deeply offensive and disrespectful towards the Sikh community, as it trivializes their religious identity and appearance.
Nijjar, addressing the media, stated that such statements from a political leader are shameful and completely unacceptable in a diverse and secular nation like India. He emphasized that making fun of an individual's religion, identity, appearance, caste, or colour is not just immoral but also exposes a regressive mindset.
A Pattern of Behaviour, Not an Isolated Incident
The AAP MLA did not limit his criticism to this single event. He framed the incident as part of a larger, historical pattern. Nijjar asserted that this remark is a continuation of the Congress party's long and painful history against Punjab and the Sikh community. He accused the Congress of having an ingrained anti-Sikh mindset, suggesting that such insults are symptomatic of a deeper prejudice within the party's ranks.
By linking the present incident to past events, Nijjar aimed to highlight what he sees as a consistent failure of the Congress to respect Sikh sentiments. His statement transforms the issue from a one-off gaffe into a serious allegation about the party's political culture.
Demands for Accountability and Apology
Inderbir Singh Nijjar was unequivocal in his demands for accountability. He called upon the Congress leadership to take two concrete steps immediately. First, he demanded that the party issue a formal and unconditional apology to the Sikh community for the hurt caused by its leader's words. Second, he insisted on strict disciplinary action being taken against Harak Singh Rawat to set an example and ensure such incidents are not repeated.
The political implications of this demand are significant, putting the Congress party in a difficult position where it must balance internal discipline with managing public perception. The incident has the potential to strain the party's relationship with the Sikh electorate, not just in Punjab but across the country.
As the video continues to generate outrage online, the pressure on the Congress leadership to respond decisively is mounting. The ball is now in the court of the Congress high command to address these serious allegations and take steps to control the political damage from this controversy.
