Punjab Political Leaders Escalate Demands Following Forensic Confirmation
Top political leaders from Punjab's major parties have launched sharp attacks after the Delhi Vidhan Sabha speaker confirmed a forensic report authenticated alleged remarks by AAP leader Atishi. The remarks are considered derogatory toward Sikh Gurus. This development has triggered strong reactions across party lines in Chandigarh.
Congress Leader Calls for Immediate Action
Partap Singh Bajwa, Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, described Atishi's comments as extremely objectionable and deeply derogatory. He stated the incident has wounded Sikh sentiments globally and diminished the dignity of a constitutional office. Bajwa emphasized this matter now transcends political rivalry and touches upon constitutional propriety and religious respect.
He referenced the official bulletin issued by the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Speaker on January 6, 2026. The bulletin confirmed the Presiding Officer received a forensic lab report verifying the remarks made on the legislative floor. Once official legislative records and forensic evidence confirm the facts, denial or evasion is not possible, Bajwa asserted.
Expressing deep concern over Atishi's continued silence, Bajwa noted the AAP leader has neither clarified her position nor offered an apology despite widespread outrage in Punjab and among the global Sikh diaspora. He demanded stringent measures including:
- Registration of a criminal case for hurting religious sentiments
- Removal of Atishi as Leader of the Opposition
- Accountability from AAP leadership for shielding misconduct
Bajwa also called for the immediate withdrawal of an FIR registered by Punjab Police in Jalandhar against Congress leaders Pargat Singh and Sukhpal Singh Khaira. These leaders had shared material now officially authenticated. He labeled the FIR as false, vindictive and politically motivated, warning that using state machinery to intimidate opponents while protecting those who insult religious sentiments poses a serious threat to democratic norms.
Akali Dal President Seeks Disqualification
Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal adopted an even stronger stance. He wrote to Delhi Vidhan Sabha speaker Vijender Gupta, urging Atishi's disqualification as a legislator for making blasphemous remarks against the Guru. Badal identified himself as both SAD chief and a devout Sikh, saying Atishi's conduct represents a grave breach of privilege and contempt of the House.
A member who insults Guru Sahiban and hurts Sikh sentiments forfeits not only moral legitimacy but also the constitutional right to remain a lawmaker, Badal declared. He demanded an FIR under IPC Sections 295A and 153A for hurting religious sentiments and promoting disharmony. Badal warned such provocations endanger communal harmony across Punjab, noting that Panthic institutions including Akal Takht Sahib have expressed serious concern.
BJP Leader Alleges Government Manipulation
BJP Punjab president Sunil Jakhar stated the Delhi Vidhan Sabha's findings prove the video of Atishi's remarks was never tampered with. He accused the Punjab government of manipulating its own investigation to protect the AAP leader. With the Delhi Speaker stating clearly that the video was not tampered with, the Punjab Police's claim collapses, Jakhar posted on social media.
Jakhar alleged the AAP government uses police to shield its leaders and suppress opponents. He said the matter warrants further inquiry by the CBI. Jakhar concluded that Atishi's conduct in the House reflects a mindset that plays with Sikh sentiments.
The convergence of criticism from Congress, SAD, and BJP highlights the escalating political tension in Punjab following the forensic authentication. Leaders across parties are now united in demanding accountability and action, framing the issue as one of religious respect and constitutional propriety rather than mere political contestation.
