Ruling BJP MLAs in the Delhi Assembly have demanded the termination of AAP leader and former Delhi CM Atishi from the House, alleging she used “insensitive words” regarding Guru Tegh Bahadur during a recent discussion in the legislative session. The protest sparked political tension and a heated exchange between BJP and AAP members.
According to the BJP, Atishi’s remark made during a discussion marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur was disrespectful and hurt religious sentiments. They urged the Assembly to take strict action, including her removal if she fails to apologies.
Assembly Disruption Amid Protests
The issue emerged during the ongoing Winter Session of the Delhi Assembly, where BJP members staged a protest inside the House, shouting slogans against Atishi and repeatedly trooping into the well of the Assembly. The situation escalated, leading to disruption of proceedings as BJP MLAs demanded an apology and action from the Speaker.
Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta described the matter as “sensitive” and said he would review video footage of the remarks and may consider a censure motion. The session was adjourned amid the uproar, and proceedings will continue later.
BJP Leaders Stress Religious Sentiments
Delhi ministers and BJP MLAs, including Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Parvesh Verma, and Kapil Mishra, criticized Atishi’s remarks, stating that any perceived disrespect towards Guru Tegh Bahadur a revered Sikh figure is unacceptable and must be condemned. They argued that a public apology is essential to maintain communal harmony and respect for religious sentiments.
BJP legislators also pointed out that Atishi was absent from the Assembly during the protest and had not yet responded to the demands.
AAP Pushes Back on Allegations
Opposition AAP MLAs have rejected the accusations, calling them politically motivated and a distortion of what was said. They maintain no disrespect was intended towards Guru Tegh Bahadur, and any alleged comments are being misrepresented amid broader political tensions between the parties.