Chandigarh (Rajeev Sharma): A political storm has erupted in Chandigarh after the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused BJP state president Jitender Pal Malhotra of making objectionable remarks about Punjabis, prompting the party to organize a protest outside the BJP office on Friday.
AAP leaders have called on workers and supporters to assemble near Gurudwara Sahib in Sector 34 before marching towards the party headquarters, asserting that the alleged comments have offended the sentiments of the Punjabi community. The party maintained that respect for Punjab’s identity and culture is non-negotiable and demanded an apology along with appropriate action.
Responding to the criticism, Malhotra said the controversy stemmed from a selectively edited video of a speech delivered during a sporting event several days ago. He claimed his words were taken out of context and circulated with political motives to portray him in a negative light. Expressing regret over the misunderstanding, he insisted that he never intended to insult Punjabis or the rural population.
The issue has also triggered reactions from within the BJP. District Vice President Kuljit Singh Sandhu publicly questioned the statement, arguing that such remarks could damage the party’s relationship with Punjabi society and farming communities. He urged the party leadership to take the matter seriously and ensure that the concerns of the community are addressed.
Meanwhile, authorities have stepped up security arrangements around the BJP office in anticipation of the demonstration. Additional police personnel have been deployed to prevent any untoward incident as political workers gather in large numbers.
The controversy has intensified the political atmosphere in the city, with both parties using the issue to rally public opinion. As protests and counter-statements continue, the debate has shifted beyond politics to questions of community identity, public discourse and political accountability.
