Punjab BJP Rallies Behind Dera Beas Head Following CM Mann's Critical Remarks
In a significant political development, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab has launched a robust defense of Radha Soami Satsang Beas head Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon, following critical remarks made by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The controversy erupted after Mann posted a subtle yet pointed verse on social media, commenting on Dhillon's recent meeting with Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) functionary Bikram Singh Majithia.
The Spark: CM Mann's Poetic Critique
The political firestorm began when Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took to his social media accounts to share a three-line verse in Punjabi. The verse, which translates to "whether it happens tomorrow or today, courts will be left to God's mercy, where (jail) visitors themselves become judges", was widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of the Dera Beas head's visit to Majithia. This meeting occurred shortly after the Supreme Court granted bail to Majithia, adding another layer of political significance to the encounter.
Initial AAP Responses: Measured Reactions
Initially, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders responded with measured statements to the developing situation. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema commented that "The Dera chief heads a big organisation. He is probably related to Majithia, and that is why he went to meet him." Another AAP leader, Baltej Pannu, expressed his view that "The Dera Beas head is a respected personality, and he should not have gone to jail. Sants are above relations." These responses set the stage for what would become a more intense political confrontation.
BJP's Full-Fledged Defense
Approximately an hour after Chief Minister Mann's social media post, Punjab BJP leaders began their coordinated response. What started as individual reactions quickly transformed into a comprehensive defense of Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon, his remarks, and a direct attack on the Chief Minister's comments.
Punjab BJP senior spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawal was among the first to react strongly. He stated, "Now you have started targeting spiritual leaders, chief minister; this is wrong. Baba Gurinder Singh Ji, the head of Radha Soami Satsang Beas, is the centre of faith for millions of people, but who will make you understand? The followers of the dera and the people of Punjab will respond to this insult."
National and State Leaders Weigh In
The defense extended beyond state BJP leaders to include national figures. Iqbal Singh Lalpura, Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, described Dhillon as a "saint and a courageous voice." He further elaborated, "In a constitutional democracy, every person is innocent until guilt is proved. Baba Ji has rightly reminded us of this principle. Police cannot act as judge and jury. Due process must prevail."
Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar contributed to the discourse by posting a poetic verse: "The saint speaks with a gentle nature, a sage's words never go in vain." Union Minister of State Ravneet Bittu issued a video statement condemning the Chief Minister's remarks, saying, "Crossing the limits of respect is unfortunate. The comment made by chief minister Bhagwant Singh Mann towards Dera Beas leader Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon Ji is highly condemnable. Such statements have not only hurt the sentiments of the followers but have also tarnished the dignity of the chief minister's high office."
Demands for Apology and Broader Criticism
Former minister Manoranjan Kalia issued a formal statement demanding that both Chief Minister Mann and Finance Minister Harpal Cheema apologize for their comments. The criticism extended across various BJP leaders and social media platforms, creating a unified front against the AAP government's stance.
Congress Enters the Fray
While the BJP led the charge against Chief Minister Mann's remarks, Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira also entered the controversy. Known for his opposition to top AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann, Khaira issued a statement condemning what he described as "derogatory and cheap language to target and humiliate Baba Gurinder Singh." He further claimed that the Dera head's views regarding Majithia's case were gaining traction across Punjab, with increasing public perception that the AAP government was misusing police machinery to implicate political opponents in fabricated cases.
The political landscape in Punjab has thus witnessed a significant escalation, with spiritual leadership becoming a focal point of contention between the ruling AAP and opposition parties. The defense of Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon by BJP leaders highlights the intersection of religion, politics, and legal proceedings in the state's complex socio-political environment.
